In a move that has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s political scene, former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor made a fiery appearance at an opposition meeting Friday, delivering a statement that has drawn both condemnation and speculation about her future in politics.
Addressing supporters at the gathering, Howard-Taylor issued a stark warning: “If he wants to lead a nation in chaos, we will help him achieve that goal.” The remark, widely interpreted as a direct challenge to President Joseph Boakai, came in response to his recent comments following a Supreme Court ruling on legislative quorum requirements.
The former vice president, who is also the ex-wife of imprisoned former President Charles Taylor, appeared defiant as she rallied opposition figures, reigniting tensions in an already divided political climate. Her words have since sparked backlash, with critics accusing her of recklessness in a nation still healing from decades of civil strife.
The gathering, which included high-profile opposition leaders, followed an emergency meeting at the headquarters of the Alternative National Congress (ANC). Sources suggest the closed-door discussions may signal a major realignment within Liberia’s opposition bloc ahead of the 2029 elections.
Among the most intriguing rumors is the possibility of ANC leader Alexander B. Cummings replacing Howard-Taylor as the National Patriotic Party (NPP) standard bearer, a move that could position him as a running mate to former President George Weah under the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) banner.
However, Howard-Taylor’s aggressive rhetoric has left many questioning her next steps. Some political insiders speculate that her outburst may be a final power play before stepping back from active politics.
“She’s holding the stick now, but her recent behavior suggests she may be preparing to exit the stage, possibly due to personal or health considerations,” a veteran analyst told this publication.
Howard-Taylor’s remarks have not gone unnoticed by authorities, with some urging Liberia’s security sector to monitor the situation closely. Civil society groups have also weighed in, emphasizing the need for restraint in a fragile democracy.
“Liberia cannot afford inflammatory rhetoric from leaders who should know better,” said Emmanuel Johnson, head of the Center for Peace and Democracy. “We’ve seen where such words can lead.”
As the nation watches these unfolding developments, one thing is clear: Liberia’s political chessboard is in flux, and the coming months could bring unexpected alliances, or further instability. Whether Howard-Taylor’s latest move is a calculated strategy or the beginning of her political exit remains to be seen.
