—Wants Return of Goods confiscated
IPNEWS: Street vendors in Monrovia are increasingly protesting against the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and its police force over a sweeping crackdown on street selling that intensified in early 2026.
The Street Vendors have accused City Police of seizing their wares and demanding bribes ranging from US$75 to various “fees” for their return. Many claim they cannot retrieve their items even after paying.
Market women issued a 14-day ultimatum to President Boakai’s administration on March 1, 2026, threatening to block his convoy if their concerns regarding “no-street-selling” policies and police harassment are not addressed.
While the MCC has identified approximately 2,000 vacant spaces across five markets (including 600 in Duala Market), vendors argue these are insufficient or poorly located to sustain their livelihoods.
Meanwhile, the MCC, led by Mayor John-Charuk Siafa, maintains that the removals are necessary to improve city sanitation, reduce traffic congestion, and restore urban order.
Effective February 1, 2026, strict bans were enforced on several major corridors, including the Duala to Caldwell Junction Road and central streets like Benson, Mechlin, and Randall.
Following reports of violence, the MCC suspended officers on January 9, 2026, pending an investigation into the alleged flogging of a civilian during enforcement actions in Duala.
New municipal regulations impose fines starting at $100 for a first violation, increasing for subsequent offenses.
On February 27, 2026, the MCC fined the Liberia Marketing Association (LMA) for improper waste disposal at commercial hubs, further straining the relationship between city authorities and the marketing community.
