President Joseph Boakai assured regional leaders and international partners that detained former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor will receive a fair trial, as his administration faces scrutiny over her arrest on drug-trafficking and financial-crime allegations.
Taylor is being treated in accordance with Liberia’s Constitution and laws, Boakai said in a televised address Wednesday. She is presumed innocent, has access to legal counsel and is entitled to due process, he said.
“It is not the President’s role to determine guilt or innocence,” Boakai said. “That responsibility belongs to our independent justice system.”
The former vice president’s arrest has drawn national and international attention, according to Boakai, who said concerns about the case were legitimate in a democracy. He cautioned, however, that guilt or innocence must be determined by the courts rather than by politics, rumor, conjecture or public pressure.
Boakai said his administration would neither persecute nor shield anyone because of political affiliation, office or influence. The law must apply equally to former officials, business leaders and ordinary citizens, he said.
The comments come as Liberia steps up its campaign against illicit drugs, money laundering and organized crime. Boakai said security agencies had been instructed to act professionally, independently and “without fear or favor,” in cooperation with national and international partners.
“This national campaign against drugs and organized crime is not directed at any individual, party, or political movement,” Boakai said. “It is directed at conduct that threatens the safety, stability, and future of Liberia.”
Taylor, who served as vice president from 2018 to 2024, was arrested and charged under Liberia’s legal procedures, Boakai said without discussing the evidence against her. He urged political and religious leaders, civil society groups and public commentators not to intimidate investigators or undermine the courts.
The president also praised members of the Joint Security for their professionalism and called on them to remain impartial while respecting the rights and dignity of all citizens.
“Liberia has come too far to revert to a culture in which justice is swayed by fear, power, or political pressure,” 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.”b
