14/04/2026
Ref: AASU/ECM/WA/EXT/IND/0012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AASU EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF WEST AFRICA CONDEMNS
POLICE BRUTALITY AGAINST UNIVERSITY OF LIBERIA STUDENTS,
DEMANDS IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF ARRESTED STUDENTS
MONROVIA, LIBERIA — April 14, 2026 — The Office of the Executive Committee Member for West Africa of the All-Africa Students Union (AASU) unequivocally and strongly condemns the brutal and unwarranted use of force by the Liberian National Police against peaceful students of the University of Liberia, particularly members of the Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) and every student who were lawfully exercising their democratic rights.
The Office further demands the
immediate and unconditional release of all students who were unlawfully arrested while exercising their constitutional rights.
This act of repression is unacceptable and represents a grave assault on the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to every Liberian citizen. The images and reports emerging from these incidents are deeply disturbing and strike at the very core of Liberia’s democratic values. Let it be made abundantly clear: students are not criminals. They are the conscience of society, the drivers of change, and the defenders of justice. Any attempt to silence them through intimidation, violence, or unlawful detention is a direct attack on democracy itself. The actions of the police demonstrate a dangerous disregard for human rights and the rule of law, and such conduct must not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia explicitly guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and expression. Article 17 clearly states: “All persons, at all times, in an orderly and peaceable manner, shall have the right to assemble and consult upon the common good…” This provision is not a privilege granted at the discretion of the state — it is an inalienable right. The actions of the Liberia National Police are therefore unconstitutional, unlawful, and a betrayal of the oath to protect and serve the people. Furthermore, Article 11 of the Constitution affirms that “all persons are born equally free and independent and have certain natural, inherent and inalienable rights.”
Among these rights are liberty, security of the person, and protection under the law. The violent crackdown on peaceful students is a direct violation of these protections and undermines the credibility of Liberia as a democratic state governed by the rule of law. We therefore demand the immediate and unconditional release of all students who were unlawfully arrested while exercising their constitutional rights. Their continued detention is not only unjust but constitutes an ongoing violation of their fundamental freedoms.
The Inspector General of Police must act without delay to rectify this injustice and restore public confidence in the institution. In addition, we call on the Government of Liberia to launch an independent, transparent, and impartial investigation into the acts of brutality perpetrated against the students. Those responsible — regardless of rank or position — must be held fully accountable. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as impunity will only embolden further violations. We also urge the international community, including human rights organizations, diplomatic missions, and regional bodies, to take a keen interest in this matter.
Silence in the face of injustice is complicity. The protection of democratic rights and freedoms in Liberia is not solely a domestic concern but a regional and global responsibility. The student movement has historically remained the epicentre of social consciousness and progressive change. Any attempt to suppress it will be met with firm resistance. We stand in solidarity with the students of Liberia and reaffirm our commitment to defending their rights, dignity, and future. The struggle for justice, accountability, and freedom will not be silenced.
Long Live The Revolutionary Spirit Of The Students’ Movement!!
Aluta—the struggle continues
Signed:
Cde. Oumu T. Sall
Executive Committee Member, West Africa, Liberia
+231 881259744 +231 778816696 UN Drive & Newport Street Intersection
Central Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa
+231 555447256 Email: [email protected]