MONROVIA – Former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor, a prominent figure in the opposition National Patriotic Party (NPP), visited the Monrovia Central Prison on Sunday, June 8, 2025, to show solidarity with four lawmakers detained in connection with the December 18, 2024 Capitol arson incident. Those currently jailed include former Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, along with Representatives Abu Kamara, Dixon Seboe of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), and Jacob Debee of the Liberian National Union (LINU).
The lawmakers are facing serious charges brought by the Liberia National Police, including Arson, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Facilitation, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, and Criminal Conspiracy. The charges stem from a fire that severely damaged sections of the Capitol Building late last year, raising national concerns about political violence and sabotage.
Following her visit to the South Beach facility, Howard-Taylor addressed journalists briefly, emphasizing that the law will take its course. Her statement comes amid rising tensions between the ruling establishment and opposition parties, many of whom view the arrest and detention of sitting lawmakers as a politically charged move.
The former vice president’s visit highlights growing opposition solidarity and brings further national attention to a case that continues to test the strength of Liberia’s legal system and democratic norms. As the accused lawmakers await trial, public discourse remains divided on whether the arrests reflect a genuine pursuit of justice or a campaign of political retribution.
