The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) has issued a strong appeal for strict adherence to constitutional guarantees and international human‑rights standards following the arrest and charging of former Vice President Cllr. Jewel Howard‑Taylor on allegations of drug trafficking and related offenses.
In a statement signed by AFELL President Cllr. Philomena T. Williams, the organization acknowledged the gravity of the charges but underscored that its position on illicit drugs remains unequivocal.
AFELL, long recognized for its advocacy on human rights, access to justice, and anti‑drug campaigns, condemned the trafficking, distribution, and facilitation of narcotics, describing the illegal trade as a profound threat to families, communities, public health, national security, and the rule of law.
Yet the association stressed that criminal charges do not equate to guilt. “Liberia’s Constitution enshrines the presumption of innocence, and this principle must apply to Cllr. Howard‑Taylor as it does to every accused person,” AFELL declared.
AFELL urged the Government of Liberia, the Liberia National Police, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and other state institutions to ensure that proceedings are conducted strictly within the framework of Liberian law and internationally recognized human‑rights standards.
The association outlined specific safeguards that must be guaranteed to Howard‑Taylor and all defendants in drug‑related cases:
Access to legal counsel, humane and non‑discriminatory treatment, protection against arbitrary detention, prompt court appearance, transparent investigative procedures, fair and timely judicial process, and evidence and accountability
AFELL cautioned investigators and prosecutors against unnecessary delays, insisting that all proceedings meet applicable evidentiary standards. Where sufficient admissible evidence exists, the matter should proceed expeditiously before the courts. Conversely, if evidence is lacking, the law must take its course, including dismissal or discharge without prejudice.
The lawyers’ group emphasized that the fight against drug trafficking and the protection of constitutional rights are not mutually exclusive. “AFELL’s anti‑drug advocacy remains unwavering,” the statement read, but enforcement must be lawful, transparent, and rooted in due process.
Reaffirming its broader mission, AFELL pledged continued advocacy against drug trafficking while defending fundamental legal principles such as judicial independence, access to justice, and the right to a fair and speedy trial.
The association concluded that strengthening Liberia’s justice system requires balancing the urgency of combating serious crimes with the constitutional protections designed to safeguard every individual.
