By: Aaron D. Kubahn Email: aaronkubahn2015@gmail.com
Contact: 0888832186/0776049985
MONROVIA – Liberia’s Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has strongly criticized individuals advocating for unrest in the country, labeling them as “agents of violence.”
Speaking during MICAT’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, Minister Piah said those calling for chaos have a well-documented history of violence and instability in Liberia. He argued that such individuals have repeatedly failed to operate in peaceful and democratic environments, suggesting they thrive only when disorder prevails.
“The people calling for chaos are not strangers to violence,” Piah stated. “They have a track record in this country that points directly to conflict. They cannot survive in an atmosphere of peace and order.”
His comments come in reaction to a recent opposition gathering, during which key opposition actors — including former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor — made what the Minister described as inflammatory statements. The gathering was held in response to a Supreme Court ruling, which called on the government to uphold the rule of law.
Piah accused the opposition of using the court’s decision as a pretext to incite unrest, rather than promote lawful governance.
“They are twisting a judicial ruling into a political weapon. That’s dangerous,” he said.
Minister Piah singled out former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor as a leading figure among what he described as “agents of violence.” According to him, Madam Taylor’s rise to political prominence was deeply tied to Liberia’s years of conflict, and as such, she feels uncomfortable in a peaceful political environment.
“Jewel Howard Taylor is the rank leader of this group. Her political foundation was built during war and upheaval. She is used to conflict. Peace, to her, is foreign,” Piah said.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to democracy and peace, emphasizing that any attempt to undermine national stability under the guise of political activism will not be tolerated.
