September 2, 2026, is expected to be a closely watched day in Liberia, with former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor due in court as former President George Weah returns home on the same day.
Taylor’s appearance comes as she faces criminal charges filed by the Ministry of Justice in connection with an ongoing drug investigation. Her lawyers had requested a one-day postponement after informing the court that she was unwell.
The defense said Taylor wants to participate fully in the preliminary examination but needs medical attention before appearing in court.
Her lawyers said she requested an examination by a physician familiar with her medical history, with the consultation scheduled for Tuesday.
They asked the court to move the proceedings from September 1 to September 2, saying the additional day would allow Taylor to receive medical care before returning to court.
Taylor was arrested on August 19 and later charged with several offenses, including drug trafficking-related crimes, criminal conspiracy, criminal facilitation, criminal solicitation and money laundering.
She has denied the allegations, while her lawyers have maintained that she is entitled to due process and appropriate treatment throughout the proceedings.
The request for the postponement was signed by Counsellors Laveli Supuwood, Finley Y. Karngar and Kabineh Ja’neh on behalf of the former Vice President.
Meanwhile, former President and CDC Political Leader George Weah is expected to return to Liberia on September 2. Ahead of his arrival, Weah shared a message from Isaiah 41:10 on WhatsApp, saying: “Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and I will help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Weah and Taylor served as President and Vice President from 2018 to 2024. His return comes as Taylor faces legal proceedings arising from the government’s wider drug investigation.
Weah’s arrival is expected to attract supporters and members of the public, while Taylor’s appearance will be closely followed as the court considers the next stage of her case.
The court is expected to rule on the defense request and determine whether Taylor’s preliminary examination will proceed on Wednesday, September 2.
The return of Weah and Taylor’s court appearance will put two former leaders of Liberia’s previous administration at the center of national attention on the same day.
