MONROVIA, Liberia — August 31, 2026 — The Bong County Legislative Caucus has called for due process, transparency and a speedy trial for former Vice President and former Bong County Senator Jewel Howard-Taylor, who is currently facing criminal allegations including drug trafficking, money laundering and other related offenses.
In a press release issued Sunday, the Caucus said while it stands in solidarity with Howard-Taylor, it fully respects the independence of Liberia’s justice system and maintains that no individual should be considered above the law.
The Caucus urged prosecutorial and judicial authorities to ensure that proceedings against the former Vice President are conducted in accordance with the Constitution and laws of Liberia, emphasizing professionalism, impartiality and transparency throughout the judicial process.
Howard-Taylor has been remanded at the Monrovia Central Prison pending trial following her arrest on August 19, 2026.
The Bong County Legislative Caucus said it visited Howard-Taylor at the headquarters of the Liberia National Police shortly after her arrest, encouraging her to remain strong and assuring her of its support during the ongoing legal proceedings.
According to the Caucus, its solidarity with the former Vice President should not be interpreted as an attempt to interfere with or influence the judicial process.
Instead, it said the position reflects its commitment to justice, fairness, due process, human dignity and the rule of law.
The lawmakers stressed that every person accused of a crime is constitutionally entitled to due process, a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
The Caucus particularly called for the case to be tried without unnecessary delay, arguing that prolonged pretrial detention is not in the interest of the accused, the prosecution or the Liberian public.
It said a prompt and transparent trial would provide prosecutors with an opportunity to present their evidence while allowing Howard-Taylor adequate opportunity to defend herself before the appropriate court.
The Caucus also acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit drugs and other crimes but emphasized that such efforts must be carried out within the framework of the Constitution, established legal procedures and the rule of law.
“We believe that Liberia’s democracy is strengthened when the law is applied fairly and consistently to everyone,” the Caucus said, adding that the justice system must protect both the interests of the state and the rights of individuals facing criminal allegations.
The Bong County lawmakers further appealed to Liberians, political actors and members of the public to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid speculation, misinformation and premature judgments while allowing the courts and other competent authorities to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
The Caucus said the seriousness of the allegations against Howard-Taylor requires a judicial process that inspires public confidence and ensures that any eventual decision is based strictly on evidence and the rule of law.
It has therefore urged the Government of Liberia, the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary and other relevant authorities to ensure that the case proceeds expeditiously, fairly and transparently.
The Bong County Legislative Caucus said it remains committed to peace, justice, constitutional governance and the protection of the rights of every Liberian.
