By Amos Harris
The Liberian government has officially confirmed that former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor is receiving her full retirement benefits, including insurance coverage and monthly payments, as mandated by law.
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah addressed the matter during the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism’s (MICAT) regular press briefing on Thursday, April 8th, stating unequivocally that the government remains committed to honoring its obligations to former national leaders.
“As a former Vice President, she is entitled to certain benefits, and according to our records, she has been receiving all of them,” Minister Piah asserted. “If there is any claim that she is not receiving what is due to her, we urge the public to inform us.”
Piah emphasized that Madam Howard-Taylor continues to receive her monthly benefits without interruption, reinforcing the government’s stance on upholding statutory obligations to past officials. He also cited precedents, including former Vice President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who reportedly received a monthly allowance of US$800 during retirement.
The Minister’s remarks come amidst increasing public interest and scrutiny over the treatment of former officials after leaving office, mainly regarding pensions, allowances, and other entitlements.
Adding to the discussion, leaked documents obtained by journalists corroborated Minister Piah’s statement. These documents indicate that Madam Howard-Taylor has indeed been receiving her retirement benefits since leaving office in January 2024.
According to the leaked financial records, for March 2025 alone, Madam Howard-Taylor received a total gross benefit of US1,432.35. After tax deductions, her net payment amounted to US1,117.88. The breakdown includes a 70% net Liberian dollar-based payment of US782.52, along with LRD66,311.52 representing the 30% local currency portion.
Despite public claims suggesting otherwise, the documentation shows no lapse in the payment of benefits to the former Vice President.
The government’s confirmation and the leaked evidence now clarify the controversy, reaffirming that former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor continues to receive all benefits due her under Liberian law.