Liberia Bans Alcohol Sale and Consumption at Grave Sites on Decoration Day

The Liberia National Police has placed a ban on the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at grave sites across Liberia during the observance of Decoration Day.

The announcement was made in a press release published on Facebook on Tuesday evening by the Liberia National Police.

Authorities say the measure is intended to maintain public order and preserve the dignity and respect associated with the solemn national occasion. Members of the public visiting cemeteries and grave sites are therefore urged to comply with the directive.

In addition, the police disclosed that snap checkpoints will be established at various strategic locations within Monrovia and surrounding areas to regulate traffic flow and ensure that road users can move freely to their destinations.

Motorists and commuters are encouraged to cooperate fully with traffic officers who will be deployed across the city during the observance.

Decoration Day is one of Liberia’s long-standing national traditions, observed annually on the second Wednesday of March. The holiday was officially established by an Act of the Liberian Legislature on October 24, 1916, declaring the day a national holiday dedicated to honouring the memory of those who have died in the service of the nation and society.

On this day, Liberians across the country visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones with flowers, wreaths and fresh paint, while also remembering national heroes and historical figures who contributed to the country’s development.

Officials say the public’s cooperation with the new restrictions will help ensure that the day remains peaceful, respectful and meaningful for families and communities across Liberia.