Boakai Says Liberia Will Pursue Drug — FSX Business
Liberian President Joseph Boakai has vowed to intensify the government’s campaign against narcotics trafficking and organised crime, saying the law will be applied equally regardless of a person’s political affiliation, position or influence.
Addressing the nation on Wednesday evening, Boakai said security agencies would pursue drug trafficking, money laundering and organised crime while respecting the constitutional rights of suspects and working with national and international partners.
“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,” he said.
The address came amid heightened attention over the arrest and detention of former Vice-President Jewel Howard Taylor. Boakai said the case was being handled in accordance with Liberia’s Constitution and laws, stressing that Taylor 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 said.
Boakai warned against allowing political pressure, public opinion, rumours or speculation to influence criminal proceedings, saying questions of guilt or innocence must be settled by the courts.
He rejected suggestions that the government’s anti-drug campaign was aimed at any individual, political party or movement.
“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 said.
The president described illicit drugs and organised crime as major threats to Liberia’s security and social stability, saying narcotics are damaging young people, weakening families and contributing to violence.
“This is not simply a law enforcement issue; it is a national security and moral issue,” he said.
The government has directed security institutions to intensify efforts against narcotics trafficking, money laundering and organised crime while operating independently and professionally, according to Boakai. The administration is also working with national and international partners to prevent Liberia 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 our nation’s future,” he said.
Boakai commended the Joint Security for what he described as their professionalism and urged them to remain impartial while respecting the rights and dignity of citizens.
He tied the anti-drug campaign to his ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, saying the government’s economic, education, infrastructure and institutional objectives depend on a functioning rule of law.
“None of our work in the economy, education, infrastructure, or public institutions can succeed unless it is anchored in one fundamental principle: the rule of law,” he said.
The president called on families, schools, religious institutions, traditional leaders and young people to support efforts against drug abuse and report criminal activity through lawful channels.
He also urged political and religious leaders, civil society organisations and public commentators to avoid statements or actions that could incite violence, weaken national institutions or intimidate law-enforcement officers.
“Liberia has come too far to revert to a culture in which justice is swayed by fear, power, or political pressure,” Boakai said.
He concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to justice, accountability, peace and the protection of constitutional rights.
“We will govern without fear or favor, protect every citizen’s rights, and build a Liberia where peace is preserved, justice is impartial, and accountability applies equally to all,” he said.
Source: FSX Business News
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