Renews echoes for July 17 protest
Monrovia, July 5, 2025 — The Liberian government’s latest announcement of increased gasoline and fuel prices has sparked a wave of frustration, sarcasm, and mounting public anger across the country. Described officially by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry as an “upward adjustment in fuel prices,” the new rates have been met with both ridicule and condemnation from everyday Liberians and opposition voices alike.
Effective July 4, 2025, gasoline (PMS) now retails at US$4.18 or LD830 per gallon, while fuel oil (AGO) is priced at US$4.46 or LD890 per gallon. The Ministry, in collaboration with the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), cited international market conditions as the reason for the 14-15 cents hike per gallon. But for Liberians struggling under growing economic hardship, the explanation only added insult to injury.
“Just imagine a can-boy telling a pehnpehn rider, ‘Gas price geh upward adjustment oh!’” Moriah Yeakula-Korkpor an opposition figure stated, followed by a burst of emojis and the now-viral phrase: “These people ain’t able the thing!” Togar Alexander Bealded a Political Activist said!
Ripple Effects and Public Outcry
The increase is expected to cause a ripple effect across the economy, with transportation fares already going up in major cities. Food vendors and market women report rising costs to bring goods to market, and taxi unions are preparing new pricing structures that could further squeeze household incomes.
Prominent civil society activist, media enthusiast, and political commentator Togar Alexander Bealded did not hold back his disapproval. In a strongly worded public statement, he said:
“Prices for gasoline and fuel gone up, which will have an overall effect on other commodities. These people ain’t able the thing! 😎 July 17, come out and protest for good governance, affordable prices, and better wages. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”
Bealded joins a growing number of voices calling for nationwide protests, scheduled for July 17, demanding not just economic reforms but a shift toward transparency and people-centered leadership.
Opposition Reaction
Opposition figure Moriah Yeakula Korkpor also weighed in, criticizing the Boakai administration’s handling of the price hike. “I jeh like how Rescue can announce increase in prices of gasoline and fuel – “upward adjustment in prices”😂 They mun speak big book to us again. Imagine can-boy telling pehnpehn boy, my man gas price geh “upward adjustment”oh.😂
A Boiling Point?
With rising inflation, stagnant wages, and now higher fuel prices, tensions are building. Protest organizers say the July 17 demonstration will be a peaceful but firm demand for reforms, including affordable petroleum, better wages, and accountable leadership.
Whether the government listens or continues to speak to its citizens in “big book” terms remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Liberians are tired, and their patience is wearing thin.
The Truth Is Our Guide