Pres. Boakai Pays Condolence Visit To Former VP Taylor

–As Philipbert Browne Pleas For Charles Taylor’s Temporary Release To Bury His Son

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, paid a condolence visit to former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor at her Congo Town residence, opposite the YWCA Compound, consoling her over the loss of her son, Charles Philip Taylor, Jr.

   Charles Philip Taylor, son of former Vice President Taylor, passed on January 20, 2026 at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Monrovia.

   During the visit, President Boakai on behalf of the Government and People of Liberia expressed his condolences, and described the death of Taylor as painful loss to the family. He emphasized the importance of empathy and national solidarity in moments of personal grievance.

   Philip was a biological son of former President Charles Ghankay Taylor and former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor. He held a Master’s degree in Shipping and Port Administration from the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana.

   Meanwhile, a prominent citizen and security expert, Philipbert S. Browne, has sent out a humanitarian appeal for the temporary release of former President Charles G. Taylor to attend the funeral of his fallen son, Charles Philip Taylor, Jr.

   Browne, former Assistant Minister for Public Affairs, Ministry of National Defense, during the Taylor administration (1997—2003), urged the international community to consider the humanitarian appeal, allowing Charles Taylor’s temporary release to attend his son’s funeral. This gesture, he said, acknowledges the pain of losing a child and respects Taylor’s right to grieve.

    He however pointed out that bringing Charles Taylor to Liberia for Charles Philip Taylor’s funeral would require significant logistical arrangements, including security, transportation, and medical support. He estimated that the cost could range from US$500,000 to US$1 million or more, considering the need for a secure aircraft, armed guards, and other expenses. “Given Taylor’s high-profile status and past crimes, the international community might weigh these costs against the humanitarian gesture of allowing him to attend the funeral,” he observed.

    Taylor’s imprisonment in the UK for war crimes and crimes against humanity has been a subject of debate. While his actions during Liberia’s brutal civil war were undeniably destructive, the loss of his son is a human tragedy that transcends politics. Allowing him to attend the funeral under strict supervision would demonstrate compassion without undermining justice, Browne underscored.

    According to him, the court’s primary concern is maintaining order and ensuring Taylor’s security risks are managed. “Given his current 50-year sentence, the likelihood of him fleeing is minimal. Permitting this visit would show the international justice system can balance accountability with humanity,” he said.

    “Taylor’s involvement in Liberia’s conflict left deep scars, but focusing on his son’s passing highlights our shared humanity. This isn’t about excusing past actions; it’s about allowing a father to say goodbye. The international community should support this compassionate appeal, demonstrating that even in justice, there is room for mercy.

    “The Liberian people and the Taylor family deserve closure. Granting this request would be a step towards healing, showing the world that even in difficult times, humanity prevails,” he added.