By: Uriahs Faith Nyepan
Email: amburiahsfaithnyepan@gmail.com
Cell: 0772117362 / 0555549474
Monrovia, Liberia – In a show of unity and determination, citizens of Liberia gathered under the banner “Bring Back Our Data” to protest recent reductions in data packages by GSM operators in Liberia. The demonstration took place at the headquarters of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) in ELWA, where peaceful protesters held placards voicing their grievances.
The petition was presented to the Acting Chairman of the LTA, Abdullah Kamara, and read by Secretary General Duku Jallah, who articulated the demonstrators’ concerns. The protest was prompted by a significant decrease in internet data packages, which many Liberians perceive as a serious injustice.
The protesters emphasized the critical importance of affordable internet access for education, employment, and maintaining connections with loved ones. They argued that the abrupt reduction in data packages has caused severe financial hardships for many families.
The petition included four key demands:
Immediate Restoration of Data Prices: Protesters called for a return to pre-December 9 pricing, where $5 provided 15 GB and $3 provided 12 GB, asserting that these rates were manageable for most households.
Strict Adherence to Affordable Floor Prices: They urged the LTA to enforce fair floor pricing for internet data to prevent exploitation by telecommunications companies.
End Manipulative Promotions: Protesters demanded transparency and fairness in promotional strategies employed by telecom companies.
Restoration of Three Days of Free Calls: They requested the reinstatement of free call services, which they deem vital for families relying on affordable communication.
The petition stressed that the decrease in internet data packages signals a disregard for the struggles of ordinary Liberians.
In response, the Acting Chairman of the LTA acknowledged receipt of the petition and assured the protesters that efforts would be made to address their concerns. He noted that discussions with GSM operators are necessary, as many decision-makers are currently out of the country.
Meanwhile, the protesters issued a 72-hour ultimatum for their demands to be addressed. If their concerns remain unmet, they plan to escalate their actions by gathering at the Executive Mansion to call for presidential intervention.
The demonstrators expressed frustration over the reduced data packages, particularly during the Christmas season when many families already face economic challenges. They described the price hike as a “profound injustice” and chanted slogans urging the LTA to prioritize their demands.
