“The Rain Didn’t Stop the March”: Bealded joins Liberians To Defy the Downpour to Demand Real Action Against Drugs

Monrovia, Liberia — August 7, 2025. Even the rain couldn’t dampen the spirit of the thousands of Liberians who took to the streets of Monrovia yesterday, marching under umbrellas and chanting “Say No to Drugs.” With soaked banners and unrelenting resolve, they pressed the government: no mere promises this time, deliver real solutions.

A Homecoming with Purpose

Togar Alexander Bealded, fresh off a tour of iconic landmarks in the United States including the White House, United Nations Headquarters, the 9/11 Memorial, and Niagara Falls etc landed in Monrovia and didn’t hesitate to join the growing crowd within hours. His presence underscored an urgent reminder that the fight against drugs requires more than distant observation, it demands direct action at home.

Voices of Demand

Leaders of women’s groups, youth advocates, and community members led the rally, delivering a pointed petition to lawmakers at the Capitol. They demanded that the government do more than pay lip service calling for:

• A declaration of a national emergency on the drug crisis
• Establishment of a specialized drug court
• Implementation of tougher sentencing, including a 20-year minimum for first-degree drug-related offenses

Admissions and Accusations

Within the Legislature, the mood shifted. Several lawmakers acknowledged that previous efforts had fallen short. They pledged swift action, a gesture many attendees viewed as a start, not the final solution.

The Scale of the Problem

Liberia’s Drug Enforcement Agency has revealed that one in five young people is affected by drug issues. Over 800 drug dens operate in Monrovia alone. The synthetic drug “kush” has become especially deadly, easily accessible, low-cost, and often laced with opioids.

Countrywide solidarity echoed the calls from the capital. Rallies sprang up in places like Grand Bassa County, reinforcing that this demand for accountability isn’t confined to Monrovia, it’s a national plea.

A Turning Point?

As rain-soaked Liberians chanted and held steadfast, their message was clear: “We’re tired with kush.” They flooded the streets not for ceremony, but for concrete change. Now, the test is simple: will the government meet their resolve with results?

Organizers are ready to monitor the Legislature’s next moves. The clock is ticking, and the country is watching.