Hundreds of motorcycle riders demonstrated in Monrovia on Monday against the government’s decision to deny them access to the city’s main roadways, chanting, “We want hustle, we don’t want to steal; give our money back and take your main road.”
The government has been accused by the riders, whose livelihoods rely on riding commercial bikes, of not keeping its word when it comes to bike registration. Motorcyclists from all around the capital gathered along the bustling Tubman Boulevard before moving toward Central Monrovia as part of the protest, calling for a reimbursement of the US$350 they spent on required licenses, insurance, registrations, and reflective jackets.
The demonstrators claim that these payments were gathered in order to protect their access to the main thoroughfares. However, many feel that their money should be reimbursed because of current limitations that prevent them from using these roads. One of the protesters, Frank Moses, stated, “We want our money back; if we can’t operate on the main streets, they should refund us.”
By drawing attention to the contradiction of paying fees to use the main streets only to be turned away, the demonstrators vented their annoyance at the administration.
They contended that in addition to being unjust, the decision also makes it harder for them to make a living. In a nation with few job options, commercial bicycling is one of the only reliable sources of income for individuals.
“We do not wish to be armed robbers or to steal. One protester emphasized that the government, which is meant to provide jobs, is really making their lives more difficult, which is why they prefer to ride bikes.
The bikers made it plain that they would not back down until their demands were fulfilled, even if the protest was mainly peaceful.
They have sworn to keep demonstrating until the government gives them complete access to Monrovia’s main streets as promised or reimburses the money they paid for permits and registrations.
The bikers’ determination only strengthens as the protest goes on, and it is unclear how the government would react to the growing pressure.
Our national correspondent reports that several smaller checkpoints have been established at various intersections since the government began restricting bikers from using the main road between the commercial city of Paynesville and central Monrovia.
