ANC Blasts ‘Selective Justice’ In Drug Case, Demands Independent Probe Into Jewel Howard Taylor Arrest

MONROVIA, LIBERIA:The Alternative National Congress (ANC) has mounted a fierce challenge to the Government of Liberia over the ongoing transnational drug case involving former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor, demanding an independent investigation and warning that the selective application of justice could deepen political divisions and undermine public confidence in Liberia’s rule of law.

In a statement issued Sunday in Monrovia and signed by Secretary General Desmond U. Nimely, the ANC said the government must handle the case with “impartiality, transparency and respect for constitutional rights,” stressing that Howard-Taylor remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty before a competent court.

“Madam Howard-Taylor, as a former Vice President and opposition leader, is entitled to constitutional protections, due process, and the presumption of innocence,” the ANC declared, rejecting what it described as the use of “public spectacle” in place of credible judicial proceedings.

The party said it supports aggressive action against Liberia’s narcotics trade, particularly the movement of massive quantities of illegal drugs, which it described as a direct threat to national security, public health and the country’s young population.

“Those responsible must be identified and held accountable,” the ANC said, insisting that the fight against drug trafficking must reach every individual connected to the alleged network, regardless of political party, government position or influence.

But the opposition party sharply questioned whether Liberia’s justice system is being applied equally, accusing the government of creating a perception that political opponents linked to the former Coalition for Democratic Change are being targeted while questions involving individuals allegedly connected to the current Unity Party administration remain unresolved.

The ANC also pointed to comments attributed to Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman concerning alleged involvement of current senior government officials, arguing that such claims cannot simply disappear from public discussion. “If the rule of law is to have meaning, the investigation must pursue every person reasonably suspected of involvement,” the party stated.

The opposition group consequently demanded five actions: an independent investigation into the entire narcotics network; evidence-based prosecution without political discrimination; equal application of the law; protection of the constitutional rights of every suspect; and full disclosure of the operation and those who allegedly facilitated it.

“Political opponents must be defeated at the ballot box through superior ideas and competent leadership, not through the weaponization or selective use of state institutions,” the ANC warned, before delivering its strongest message to the government: “Justice not partisan politics must direct the actions of the state. No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection. LIBERIA DESERVES BETTER!”