By: Julius Konton
The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) has called for strict adherence to constitutional guarantees and international human-rights standards following reports of the arrest and subsequent charging of its member, Cllr. Jewel Howard-Taylor, in connection with allegations of drug trafficking and related offenses.
In a statement signed by its President, Cllr. Philomena T. Williams, AFELL said it had formally taken note of the development while emphasizing that its position on illicit drugs remains unequivocal.
The association, which has been actively engaged in the promotion of human rights, access to justice and anti-drug advocacy, strongly condemned the trafficking, distribution, transportation, facilitation and use of narcotics and other controlled substances.
According to AFELL, the illegal drug trade represents a serious threat to families and communities while creating broader challenges for public health, national security, social stability and the rule of law.
While condemning illegal drug activities, AFELL stressed that the filing of criminal charges does not amount to a judicial finding of guilt.
The association emphasized Liberia’s constitutional presumption of innocence, under which every accused person must be regarded as innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
AFELL said this principle must apply to Cllr. Howard-Taylor as it does to every other person accused of a criminal offense.
The organization therefore called on the Government of Liberia, the Liberia National Police, the Drug Enforcement Agency and other relevant state institutions to ensure that the case is handled strictly within the framework of Liberian law and internationally recognized human-rights standards.
AFELL specifically called for Cllr. Howard-Taylor and all other persons facing drug-related allegations to be guaranteed:
Access to competent legal counsel;
Humane, dignified and non-discriminatory treatment;
Protection against arbitrary detention;
Prompt appearance before a competent court;
Transparent and lawful investigative procedures; and
A fair, impartial and timely judicial process.
The association further urged investigators and prosecutors to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure that all proceedings meet applicable legal and evidentiary standards.
AFELL maintained that where prosecutors establish sufficient admissible evidence to sustain the allegations, the matter should proceed expeditiously before the appropriate court.
Conversely, the association said that where the evidence is insufficient to support the charges, the law should be allowed to take its course, including dismissal or discharge where appropriate, without prejudice or unnecessary delay.
The lawyers’ group stressed that the fight against drug trafficking and the protection of constitutional rights are not mutually exclusive.
“AFELL’s anti-drug advocacy remains unwavering,” the association maintained, while insisting that enforcement measures must be implemented lawfully, transparently and within the boundaries of due process.
AFELL reaffirmed that it will continue to advocate against drug trafficking and other unlawful drug-related activities in Liberia while defending fundamental legal principles, including the presumption of innocence, judicial independence, access to justice and the right to a fair and speedy trial.
The association said its position reflects its broader commitment to strengthening Liberia’s justice system and ensuring that efforts to combat serious crimes do not undermine the constitutional protections designed to safeguard every individual.
