MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Former Vice President Madam Jewel Howard Taylor has criticized opposition political parties and sections of the media for what she described as a growing tendency to focus primarily on negative developments in Liberia while paying little attention to progress and achievements being made across the country.
Speaking on recent national issues, Madam Taylor said opposition figures and some media institutions often amplify unfavorable stories about Liberia rather than highlighting development initiatives and accomplishments that could inspire hope and national pride.
She pointed to the groundbreaking ceremony for Liberia’s first maternity hospital, held on Thursday, as an example of a major national milestone that deserves broader public recognition. According to the former Vice President, the project represents one of the most significant healthcare initiatives undertaken in post-war Liberia and demonstrates ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services for women and children.
Madam Taylor noted that the facility is expected to strengthen maternal healthcare delivery and contribute to better health outcomes for mothers and newborns across the country.
“Liberia is becoming a negative society,” she said, expressing concern that positive developments are often overshadowed by criticism and unfavorable public discourse.
She urged Liberians, including political actors, media practitioners, and civil society groups, to maintain a balanced approach by acknowledging national achievements while continuing to address existing challenges.
Despite her criticism of what she described as excessive negativity, Madam Taylor acknowledged that Liberia continues to face serious problems that require urgent intervention. Among those concerns, she highlighted the country’s growing drug crisis, warning that substance abuse and drug trafficking are having devastating effects on young people.
“The drugs situation is a major concern because it is destroying the youth of this country,” she stated.
Her comments come at a time when national conversations remain centered on governance, development, public accountability, and the increasing prevalence of drug abuse among Liberia’s youth.
Madam Taylor’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions among citizens. While some Liberians agree that positive national achievements often receive insufficient attention, others maintain that robust criticism and scrutiny are essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and effective governance.
The debate reflects broader discussions about the role of the media and opposition parties in shaping public discourse, as Liberia continues to confront developmental challenges while pursuing key national projects aimed at improving the lives of its citizens.
