Former Liberia VP held in prison ahead of drug trial

Former Liberian Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has been held in pre-trial detention in Monrovia ahead of her drug trafficking trial, according to reports. The charges against her include involvement in an international narcotics trafficking network, which is linked to the largest cocaine bust in the country's history. Howard-Taylor, who served as vice president from 2018 to 2024, was arrested at Roberts International Airport and charged with unlicensed importation, sale, trading, and administration of drugs.

Three other individuals, two Croatians and a Ukrainian, were also charged in the same case. Despite her lawyers requesting compassionate leave due to her asthma, the court denied the request, stating that only the attorney general can grant such leave. The case has sparked controversy, with opposition parties accusing the current administration of targeting opposition figures.

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