MONROVIA – The Standard Bearer of the New Liberia Party (NLP), Dr. Joshua Tom Turner, has issued a strongly worded open letter urging the Government of Liberia(GoL) to launch what he described as a comprehensive, transparent and independent investigation into the reported US$19.2 million cocaine scandal.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
In the letter addressed to President of Liberia, the Government, and the Liberian people, Dr. Turner said the alleged scandal has “shaken the conscience of the nation” and attracted international attention, making it imperative for authorities to demonstrate their commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
He stressed that every individual connected to the alleged case, regardless of political affiliation or social status, be investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.
” The Liberian people deserve to know the full facts surrounding this matter, and all individuals involved—whether directly or indirectly—must be investigated and brought before the law without fear, favor, political influence, or compromise,” the opposition leader stated.
Dr. Turner warned that any attempt to conceal facts or protect those responsible would further weaken public confidence in government institutions and undermine Liberia’s justice system.
According to him, the fight against narcotics trafficking and organized crime must be impartial, emphasizing that “justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.”
In his open letter, Dr. Turner outlined what he described as the far-reaching consequences of drug trafficking, arguing that such criminal activities pose significant threats to Liberia’s social and economic development.
He said narcotics trafficking contributes to youth addiction, violent crime, school dropouts, and family disintegration, while simultaneously strengthening organized criminal networks involved in corruption, money laundering and transnational crimes.
The NLP Standard Bearer further argued that unresolved allegations involving large-scale drug operations could erode public trust in state institutions and discourage foreign investment by damaging Liberia’s international reputation.
He also cautioned that the country’s image abroad could suffer lasting consequences if decisive action is not taken. Dr. Turner expressed concern over what he described as the growing stigma faced by Liberians traveling internationally.
According to him, repeated reports of drug-related incidents involving Liberia have resulted in law-abiding citizens facing increased scrutiny at airports and border crossings, lengthy interrogations, profiling, and unnecessary suspicion from immigration and customs authorities.
He maintained that ordinary Liberians seeking education, employment, business opportunities, or tourism should not bear the burden of criminal acts allegedly committed by a few individuals.
“No nation should allow the actions of a few criminals to define the identity of an entire people,” he said.
The opposition leader urged the Government of Liberia to undertake several measures, including:
Conducting an independent, transparent, and credible investigation into the alleged drug scandal publishing the investigation’s findings for public scrutiny, identifying and prosecuting all individuals found responsible, regardless of their status or political affiliation, strengthening border security, anti-narcotics enforcement and anti-money laundering mechanisms and working closely with international partners to prevent Liberia from becoming a hub for illicit drug trafficking.
Dr. Turner concluded his letter by describing the situation as a defining moment for Liberia, arguing that the government’s response would determine whether the country moves toward greater accountability or further erosion of public trust.
“We must choose truth over silence, justice over compromise, and national integrity over personal interests,” he added.
