MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Rep. Musa Bility of Nimba County District #7 has raised concerns following the re-arrest of his son, Peach Bility, by state security officers. Peach Bility had initially been arrested by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at Miami Beach on charges related to illegal drugs and firearms possession. The charges include 21.4 grams of Kush, 500 grams of marijuana, and several firearms, including a single-barrel gun, an orange-colored firearm, and a black pistol. Under Liberia’s 2023 Anti-Drug Law, these offenses are considered first-degree felonies and are non-bailable, carrying life imprisonment penalties.
Despite the serious charges, reports emerged that Rep. Bility used his political influence to secure his son’s release. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the lawmaker expressed his distress over the re-arrest, claiming that his son had been in full compliance with the conditions of his bail for the past three months. Bility questioned the legality of the judge’s decision to suspend the bond without any motion from the prosecution and without the validity of the bond being challenged.
“Why was this done when there was no legal challenge to the bond? Why was my son sent back to prison when he was fully compliant with his bail conditions?” Rep. Bility asked in his statement. He further expressed concerns that the judge’s actions were not based on the rule of law but potentially driven by political pressure.
Bility clarified that, as a father and public servant, he would not interfere in the legal process, emphasizing that if his son is found guilty, he must face the full consequences of the law. However, he called for fairness and transparency in the legal proceedings, asserting that the justice system should not be manipulated by political interests.
“My son has maintained his innocence, stating that the narcotics-related charges against him are baseless and that the weapons attributed to him are not his,” Bility added. “We trust in the legal process, but we also expect that process to be free from manipulation.”
Rep. Bility went on to criticize Liberia’s broader drug-related issues, stating that powerful individuals and networks involved in drug trafficking continue to operate with impunity, while young people like his son are often scapegoated. He pointed to the collaboration between government officials and international drug cartels as a major factor undermining the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the country.
“I have long been an advocate for stronger drug prevention and rehabilitation programs in Liberia. I call on the Ministry of Justice and all relevant authorities to uphold the principles of fairness and impartiality,” Bility said. “The justice system should not be used as a political weapon.”
The statement also addressed the civil society organization, Green Media Campaigners, which called for the immediate re-arrest of Peach Bility. The group condemned his release, highlighting the need for Liberia’s justice system to remain free from political influence. Steve Doito, Lead Campaigner of the group, remarked, “The circumstances surrounding Peach Bility’s release raise serious concerns about the integrity, independence, and fairness of Liberia’s justice system. While ordinary citizens accused of lesser crimes remain in overcrowded prisons, the son of a lawmaker walks free despite facing serious charges. This is a clear case of injustice and abuse of power.”
Rep. Bility reiterated his commitment to ensuring that his son receives a fair trial and that justice prevails. He urged the Liberian people to remain vigilant and demand accountability, not only for the young people being prosecuted but also for those in positions of power who enable the drug trade.
“We will not be discouraged. Instead, we will use this moment to redouble our efforts in the fight for justice, fairness, and a Liberia free from the scourge of drugs,” he concluded.
