Liberia: Former VP Jewel Howard-Taylor Says She’s Yet to Receive Benefits, Recounts ‘Disrespect’ After Boakai Inauguration

Monrovia, April 7, 2025 – Former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has broken her silence over what she describes as deliberate neglect and disrespect from the Unity Party-led government since leaving office. According to her, the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has failed to provide any of the constitutional benefits legally due to her as a former Vice President of the Republic of Liberia.

Appearing on Spoon Talk, Taylor expressed frustration, revealing that despite several formal communications to the current government, there has been no official acknowledgment or response to her appeals. “I have not received any of the benefits due me as a former Vice President,” Taylor lamented. “Up to now, I am using my personal car for transportation.” Taylor, who served alongside former President George Weah from 2018 to 2024, also recounted a moment of public humiliation during President Boakai’s inauguration in January. After ceremonially turning over her official vehicles to the incoming Vice President, she said she was left stranded without transportation.

“After handing over the vehicles, I stood under a tree with no official ride home. It was one of the most disheartening moments,” she recalled.

The former VP said the incident was indicative of a broader pattern of disrespect toward former public officials, and warned that such treatment undermines the dignity of the offices they once held. Taylor further criticized the Boakai administration, alleging that the country’s economic conditions have worsened since the new government took office. She argued that the silence over her benefits reflects a more profound issue of governance and a disregard for national reconciliation.

“It’s disappointing, especially considering the sacrifices we make in public service. This should never be about politics—it’s about respecting the offices we hold,” she added. Under Liberian law, former presidents and vice presidents are entitled to pensions, security, medical coverage, and official transportation. However, the implementation of these entitlements has often been subject to political will and budgetary decisions. So far, the Boakai administration has not issued any public response to Taylor’s claims. However, the issue is gaining political traction, especially among supporters of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), who view the situation as a calculated attempt to tarnish Taylor’s legacy and undermine her contributions to public service. Political observers say Taylor’s revelations could further deepen the political divide and reignite discussions around how Liberia treats its former leaders—particularly in a time of heightened political polarization. As public pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether the government will respond or if the situation will continue to stir controversy in the days ahead.