Boakai Vows Unrelenting Fight Against Illicit Drugs, Assures Due Process for Jewel Howard Taylor

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ADNews-Monrovia,Liberia: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to an aggressive campaign against illicit drug trafficking and organized crime, while assuring Liberians that the government will respect the constitutional rights of all persons facing prosecution.

In a special national address on Wednesday, August 26, Boakai said his government would enforce the law “without fear or favor” and ensure that justice is pursued firmly, fairly and independently.

The President’s address comes amid growing public debate following the recent arrest and detention of former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, whose case has attracted national and international attention.

President Boakai said Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs is not merely a law-enforcement matter but a national security and moral issue, warning that narcotics are destroying young lives, weakening families, fueling violence and threatening the country’s future.

“This campaign is deliberate, coordinated, and unrelenting,” President Boakai said, emphasizing that the effort is intended to protect Liberians and prevent the country from becoming a transit point for illegal drugs or a safe haven for criminal networks.

The President said his administration has intensified efforts against narcotics trafficking, money laundering and organized crime, directing security institutions to operate professionally and independently while working with national and international partners.

He stressed that the campaign is not targeted at any particular individual, political party or movement.

“This national campaign against drugs and organized crime is not directed at any individual, party, or political movement; it is directed at conduct that threatens the safety, stability, and future of Liberia,” Boakai said.

He further maintained that the rule of law remains fundamental to the success of his administration and the country’s broader development agenda.

According to the President, progress under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development cannot be sustained unless Liberia’s institutions are anchored in respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.

Jewel Howard Taylor Case

Addressing the arrest and detention of former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, President Boakai sought to reassure the public that the former government official is being treated according to Liberian law.

“I assure every Liberian, our regional neighbors, and our international partners that former Vice President Taylor is being treated in full compliance with the Constitution and laws of Liberia,” he said.

Boakai emphasized that Taylor is presumed innocent, has access to legal counsel and is entitled to due process.

He also drew a distinction between the executive branch and the courts, noting that determining guilt or innocence is not the responsibility of the President.

“It is not the President’s role to determine guilt or innocence. That responsibility belongs to our independent justice system,” he said.

The President urged Liberians to allow the courts to determine the outcome of the case rather than relying on political arguments, rumors, conjecture or public pressure.

Law Must Apply Equally

President Boakai pledged that his administration would neither persecute nor protect individuals because of their political affiliation, official position, social status or influence.

“Whether one has held high office, served in government, led a business, or lived as an ordinary citizen, the law must apply equally to all,” he said.

The President also commended members of the Joint Security for what he described as their professionalism, courage and dedication to duty.

He urged security personnel to remain impartial and steadfast while respecting the rights and dignity of citizens, particularly amid what he described as pressure, intimidation and misinformation.

Call for Public Cooperation

President Boakai said the government cannot win the fight against illicit drugs alone.

He called on parents, communities, schools, religious institutions, traditional leaders and young people to support drug-prevention efforts, reject misinformation and report suspected criminal activity through lawful channels.

He also appealed to political and religious leaders, civil society organizations and public commentators to exercise responsibility in their public statements.

While acknowledging that disagreement is an essential part of democracy, the President warned against rhetoric or actions that could incite violence, undermine state institutions or intimidate law-enforcement officials.

Liberia Has Come Too Far

President Boakai said Liberia’s history of conflict, hardship and political division should serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and strengthening democratic institutions.

“Liberia has come too far to revert to a culture in which justice is swayed by fear, power, or political pressure,” he said.

He maintained that his administration remains committed to justice, fairness, accountability and peace, while pledging to protect the rights of every citizen.

“As your President, I assure you that this Government remains committed to justice, fairness, accountability, and peace,” Boakai said. “We will govern without fear or favor, protect every citizen’s rights, and build a Liberia where peace is preserved, justice is impartial, and accountability applies equally to all.”

The President concluded his address by calling for continued national peace and asking God to bless Liberia and preserve the republic.