President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has assured that his Administration will apply the law equally to every Liberian, regardless of political affiliation, public office, social status, or influence.
Boakai statement comes against the backdrop of an intensified, and unrelenting national campaign against illicit drugs, and organized crime.
While addressing the nation on Wednesday, August 26, Boakai said, the government’s fight against narcotics trafficking will be pursued without fear, or favor, and that the law will be applied equally, while ensuring that the constitutional rights of every person are protected. He said, allegations of criminal conduct are determined through independent justice system.
“My Administration will neither persecute, nor shield anyone because of political affiliation, office, status, or influence. Whether one has held high office, served in government, led a business, or lived as an ordinary citizen, the law must apply equally to all.”
Boakai address comes amid heightened public attention surrounding the recent arrest, and subsequent detention of former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor.
While acknowledging the national, and international concern generated by the case, Pres. Boakai said, Madam Taylor is being treated in accordance with the constitution, the laws, and that she remains presumed innocent, has access to legal counsel, and is entitled to due process.
“It is not the President’s role to determine guilt or innocence. That responsibility belongs to our independent justice system.”
He cautioned against allowing political considerations, public pressure, rumors, or conjecture to determine the outcome of criminal proceedings, insisting that guilt, or innocence must be established by the courts.
Boakai further rejected suggestions that the government campaign against drugs, and organized crime is targeted at any particular individual, political party or movement, saying: “the campaign is directed solely at conduct that threatens security, stability, and future.”
“This national campaign against drugs, and organized crime is not directed at any individual, party, or political movement; it is directed at conduct that threatens the safety, stability, and future of Liberia.”
Boakai described illicit drugs, and organized crime as among the greatest threats confronting Liberia.
He disclosed how narcotics have destroyed young lives, weakened families, fueled violence, and placed the nation’s future at risk.
“This is not simply a law enforcement issue; it is a national security, and moral issue.”
Boakai said, his Administration has intensified the fight against narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and organized crime, directing security institutions to act professionally, independently and without fear or favor, while working with national, and international partners to prevent the country from becoming a transit point for illegal drugs or a safe haven for criminal networks.
“This campaign is deliberate, coordinated, and unrelenting. It is intended to defend the Liberian people, protect the Liberian character, and safeguard the future of our nation.”
Meanwhile, Boakai has commended the joint security for their professionalism, courage, and devotion to duty.
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