Monrovia — The Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has called for an impartial, transparent and sustained investigation into Liberia’s growing drug crisis, insisting that no person should be shielded from accountability because of political affiliation, public office, social status or personal connections.
By Patience M. Jones,patiencejones@frontpageafricaonlinecom
In a statement issued on August 20, WONGOSOL urged political leaders, public officials, political parties, their supporters and citizens to allow the Joint Security and other relevant state institutions to conduct ongoing investigations without political interference, intimidation, pressure or obstruction.
The women-led civil society network stressed that Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs must be treated as a national priority rather than a political contest.
According to WONGOSOL, the investigation and prosecution of alleged drug-related offenses must be guided by credible evidence and the rule of law, while ensuring that the rights of individuals under investigation are fully protected.
“No individual should be protected from legitimate investigation because of their position or connections, and no individual should be presumed guilty merely because their name has been mentioned in connection with an investigation,” the organization said.
‘The Concerns of Women and Youth Must Not Go to Waste’
WONGOSOL recalled the August 2025 nationwide action in which women and young people, supported by male allies, took to the streets to demand urgent government action against Liberia’s drug crisis.
The organization said the demonstration reflected the growing concern among mothers, families and communities over the impact of illicit drugs on young people and Liberia’s future.
WONGOSOL warned that the concerns raised during those demonstrations must translate into concrete government action.
“The concerns raised by the women and youth of Liberia must not go to waste,” the organization emphasized.
It called on the Government of Liberia and relevant state institutions to demonstrate that the fight against illicit drugs is not selective and that investigations are conducted professionally, independently, transparently and in accordance with Liberian law.
Due Process Must Be Protected
While demanding accountability, WONGOSOL also cautioned against rushing to judgment.
The organization stressed that allegations, political statements, public speculation or mere association must never replace credible evidence.
It called for every person accused or investigated to be afforded due process and the presumption of innocence as guaranteed under Liberian law.
WONGOSOL maintained that individuals found to have participated in the illegal drug trade should face appropriate legal consequences, regardless of their political affiliation, position, influence or connections.
At the same time, it urged political actors to refrain from statements or actions that could politicize, obstruct or undermine legitimate investigations.
Beyond Arrests and Prosecutions
WONGOSOL said Liberia’s response to the drug crisis must extend beyond arrests and prosecutions, warning that law enforcement alone will not address the underlying factors contributing to drug abuse and trafficking.
The organization called for a comprehensive national response that includes prevention and public education, rehabilitation and reintegration services, stronger border and law-enforcement measures, support for affected families and communities, and interventions addressing the social and economic vulnerabilities that place young people at risk.
It further urged the Government, Joint Security, Judiciary, political actors, civil society organizations, community and traditional leaders, religious leaders, the media and citizens to put Liberia’s national interest above political and personal considerations.
‘Young People Deserve a Future Free From Drugs’
WONGOSOL said Liberia’s young people deserve a future free from the devastating consequences of illicit drugs and called for sustained national action to protect them.
The organization said those responsible for facilitating the illegal drug trade must be identified through credible investigations and held accountable where wrongdoing is established.
However, it reiterated that accountability must go hand in hand with respect for the rights of every person under investigation.
WONGOSOL reaffirmed its commitment to working with women, families and communities to demand accountability, justice, prevention, rehabilitation and sustained national action in confronting Liberia’s drug crisis.
The organization stressed that the fight against illicit drugs should unite Liberia rather than deepen political divisions, urging all stakeholders to allow the justice system and relevant security institutions to do their work without fear or favor.
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