Monrovia, Liberia – The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) at the University of Liberia has endorsed the planned July 17 “Lead or Leave” protest organized by the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), while calling for the dismissal of Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman and an independent investigation into the reported US$19.2 million cocaine seizure.
In a statement issued Tuesday and signed by its Chairman, Odecious Mulbah, the student movement accused the Boakai administration of failing to address worsening economic conditions, rising unemployment, and the increasing cost of living, arguing that ordinary Liberians continue to face severe economic hardship.
According to SUP, these challenges have compelled the organization to support STAND’s nationwide demonstration, which it says is intended to demand greater government accountability and economic reforms.
The student movement also called for an independent international investigation into the high-profile cocaine case, urging Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung to voluntarily waive any immunity available to him and cooperate fully with investigators.
SUP’s demand follows public discussion surrounding photographs and alleged interactions involving the Vice President and an individual reportedly linked to the drug investigation. While acknowledging that the images do not constitute proof of criminal wrongdoing, the organization argued that the allegations warrant an independent inquiry to preserve public confidence in the country’s leadership.
The Vice President has previously denied any involvement in the matter and distanced himself from the individual referenced in the reports.
Additionally, SUP demanded the immediate dismissal of Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman, criticizing the police’s handling of the US$19.2 million cocaine investigation.
The student organization alleged that the police investigative report failed to adequately explain a reported delay in securing the suspicious shipment after it was first identified, did not provide sufficient information regarding financial and digital evidence, and omitted any findings involving airport personnel, security officers, or other public officials who may have played a role in the movement of the shipment.
SUP argued that a drug trafficking operation of such magnitude could not have been executed without the involvement or assistance of individuals within state institutions and maintained that public confidence in the investigation requires an independent review.
The organization said it will join thousands of Liberians expected to participate in the July 17 protest, which organizers say is intended to press the government for greater accountability, transparency, and action on the country’s economic and governance challenges.
