The re-arrest of Peach H. Bility, son of Representative Musa Hassan Bility on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, has ignited fierce debates on the integrity of Liberia’s justice system and the growing concerns over political influence in the country’s legal processes. Peach Bility, who was initially arrested in March 2024 on serious charges of unlicensed drug possession, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms possession, was freed in December 2024 under controversial circumstances, sparking public outrage.
Peach Bility had been charged with possessing illegal drugs, including 21.4 grams of Kush and 500 grams of marijuana, as well as multiple firearms, including a single-barrel gun, an orange-colored firearm, and a black pistol. These offenses, classified as non-bailable under Liberia’s 2023 Anti-Drug Law, were considered first-degree felonies with life imprisonment penalties. However, following his arrest by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at Miami Beach, reports surfaced that Representative Musa Bility used his political influence to secure his son’s release, despite the serious charges against him.
In a move that shocked many, it was revealed that Wilfred J.S. Bangura, Chief of Staff to Representative Musa Bility, acted as the human surety in securing Peach’s release. This maneuver raised serious concerns about the manipulation of Liberia’s legal system, where political connections are perceived to override the rule of law. Social justice advocate Martin Kollie strongly criticized the incident, emphasizing the deepening culture of impunity within the nation’s governance and judicial systems. Kollie’s statement, “The law cannot only be for the poor and the weak,” resonated with many Liberians who have long seen political elites escape accountability while ordinary citizens face harsh punishments.
On Monday, February 24, 2025, Green Media Campaigners, a civil society organization dedicated to fighting corruption and promoting justice, issued a statement calling for the immediate re-arrest of Peach Bility. The group condemned the mysterious release and underscored the need for Liberia’s justice system to be free from political influence. Steve Doito, Lead Campaigner of the group, stated, “The circumstances surrounding Peach Bility’s release raise serious concerns about the integrity, independence, and fairness of Liberia’s justice system. While ordinary citizens accused of lesser crimes remain in overcrowded prisons, the son of a lawmaker walks free despite facing serious charges. This is a clear case of injustice and abuse of power.”
Peach Bility’s re-arrest on February 25, 2025, has only intensified public scrutiny. He was apprehended after authorities received a directive from the judge overseeing his case, despite claims by his father that Peach had complied with all conditions of his bail. Representative Musa Bility, in a press statement issued shortly after his son’s re-arrest, expressed deep concern over what he perceived as political motivations behind the latest legal action.
“As a father and public servant, I will not interfere in the legal process,” the representative stated, asserting that his son had not violated any conditions of his bail. He maintained that his son had remained in Liberia, reported weekly as required, and cooperated fully with the authorities. Despite this, Musa Bility expressed his belief that political pressures were influencing the judicial process, potentially leading to his son’s re-arrest without proper legal justification.
While defending his son’s innocence, Musa Bility drew attention to a larger issue: the systemic challenges in Liberia’s fight against drug trafficking and the uneven application of justice. He criticized the government’s failure to hold accountable the “real perpetrators of drug trafficking,” powerful individuals and networks that fuel the country’s drug crisis. “The real criminals operate with impunity while young victims like my son are scapegoated,” he added.
In his statement, Representative Bility called for a fair and impartial trial, stating, “The justice system should not be used as a political weapon.” He urged the Ministry of Justice and relevant authorities to apply the law equitably and without external pressures. The statement also reflected Bility’s longstanding advocacy for stronger drug prevention and rehabilitation programs in Liberia, particularly for young people affected by addiction.
The circumstances surrounding Peach Bility’s arrest and release expose the wider struggles faced by Liberia’s judiciary. Many citizens argue that the justice system is tainted by political influence, where those with connections can avoid consequences while less powerful individuals face harsh penalties. The release of an individual charged with serious drug-related crimes, facilitated by a prominent lawmaker’s office, has prompted widespread calls for reforms.
Green Media Campaigners echoed these concerns, asserting that the release undermines Liberia’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes. The organization expressed disappointment in the government’s seeming inability to prosecute individuals linked to the powerful drug trade. “This showcases the ongoing struggle between privilege and the law,” said Steve Doito. “If the justice system is to be respected, it must be applied equally to all.”
