What’s behind Liberia’s nationwide ban on student street parades
Liberia has banned student street parades during school events and exam celebrations following rising concerns about safety and public order.
The decision, announced by the Ministry of Education and the Liberia National Police, applies across all 15 counties and takes effect immediately.
Authorities say the move comes after repeated incidents of injuries, public disturbance, and reckless behaviour during student gatherings, especially around WASSCE exam celebrations.
The government says students riding on trucks and motorbikes without safety gear, blocking traffic, and in some cases using drugs or alcohol, have put lives at risk.
The Ministry of Education stressed that students are still free to celebrate, but only in secure locations such as stadiums, school grounds, or town halls.
Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah also said the ban is grounded in national law and aims to protect students and the public from harm.
“This is not about stopping joy, it’s about making sure the joy doesn’t end in tragedy,” Dr. Jallah said.
Police Chief Gregory Coleman, on the other hand, backed the move, citing past accidents, including a deadly parade on the Monrovia-Kakata Highway.
He warned that both schools and adults who ignore the rules will face penalties. Officials say a model school working with the ministry has already set an example for safe celebrations.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
