President Boakai Declares Unrelenting War on Illicit Drugs and Organized Crime, Vows Rule of Law Will Govern Arrest of Former VP Jewel Howard Taylor
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
In National Address, Liberian Leader Says No One Is Above the Law as Government Intensifies Crackdown on Narcotics Trafficking and Money Laundering
MONROVIA, Liberia — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Wednesday night addressed the nation on what he described as one of Liberia’s gravest threats, declaring his administration’s commitment to an “unrelenting, coordinated, and deliberate” campaign against illicit drug trafficking and organized crime.
Speaking from the Executive Mansion, President Boakai said the fight was anchored on the “fundamental principle” of the rule of law and was not targeted at any individual, political party, or movement, even as he directly addressed the arrest and detention of former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor.
“Justice Must Be Pursued Firmly, Fairly, and Independently.
President Boakai said he was speaking to counter misinformation and concern that has followed recent developments in the country.
“When you entrusted me with the leadership of this country, you did so with a clear expectation that I would uphold the Constitution, govern with integrity, strengthen our institutions, and ensure that no one is above the law,” he said.
He linked the anti-drug campaign to his government’s broader ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, arguing that progress in the economy, education, and infrastructure “cannot succeed unless it is anchored in the rule of law.”
“One of the greatest threats facing our nation is the growing menace of illicit drugs and organized crime. Drugs are destroying young lives, weakening families, fueling violence, and threatening our country’s future,” the President stated.
“This is not simply a law enforcement issue; it is a national security and moral issue.”
The President’s address came amid intense public attention over the arrest of former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor.
President Boakai assured Liberians, regional neighbors, and international partners that Madam Taylor “is being treated in full compliance with the Constitution and laws of Liberia.”
“She is presumed innocent, has access to legal counsel, and is entitled to due process, which will be upheld,” he said.
“It is not the President’s role to determine guilt or innocence. That responsibility belongs to our independent justice system.”
“Our democracy will be measured not by how we treat those with whom we agree, but by how faithfully we uphold the rights of every person who comes before the law,” Boakai added.
The President directed security institutions to act professionally, independently, and without fear or favor,” and to work with national and international partners to prevent Liberia from becoming a transit point for illegal drugs.
He commended the Joint Security for professionalism, courage, and devotion to duty despite pressure and attempts at intimidation, and calculated misinformation.
President Boakai also called on citizens, religious leaders, civil society, and the media to reject incitement and support prevention efforts.
“Liberia has come too far to revert to a culture in which justice is swayed by fear, power, or political pressure,” he said.
“Let us preserve that peace by upholding the Constitution and strengthening the institutions that safeguard our democracy.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to “justice, fairness, accountability, and peace, and to governing without fear or favor.
