MONROVIA, Liberia – The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) is demanding a transparent investigation into the death of Ntombi Toni Khumalo Jackson, a South African national whose passing has attracted national concerns. In a statement released on Sunday, AFELL extended its deepest condolences to the Khumalo family, the people of South Africa, and all those mourning what it described as a “devastating loss” resulting from alleged domestic violence.
Mrs. Jackson died last week at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Monrovia after being transferred from Catholic Hospital, where she was initially rushed for emergency brain surgery. On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the Liberia National Police (LNP) named her spouse, Liberian politician Mr. Samuel P. Jackson, as the prime suspect in the case. While Mr. Jackson has stated that he found his wife unconscious and promptly sought medical care, the circumstances leading to her critical injuries remain unclear.
The situation has been further inflamed by the circulation of graphic images on social media that appear to show lacerations on the deceased’s body, heightening public anguish and concern.
AFELL, a leading voice for women’s rights and legal advocacy in Liberia, stressed that the tragic incident serves as a “painful reminder that violence against women remains a critical national concern that demands decisive and sustained action.”
The organization called on the LNP and all relevant justice sector institutions to conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation, insisting the process be “free from delay, interference, or undue influence.” “Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done,” the statement read, signed by Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley, AFELL’s Vice President and Officer in Charge. AFELL also urged authorities to guarantee the full protection and security of witnesses and anyone with relevant information.
In its demand for accountability, the association reminded the Government of Liberia of its legal obligations under both national and international law.
This includes the Domestic Violence Act, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Maputo Protocol, all of which obligate the state to prevent violence against women and ensure access to justice for victims.
Beyond the legal proceedings, AFELL made a strong appeal to the media, social media users, and the general public to refrain from circulating graphic images or sensitive personal information relating to Mrs. Jackson. “Responsible reporting and respectful public discourse are essential in preserving the dignity of the deceased and supporting the grieving family,” the statement emphasized. The organization framed the tragedy as a moment for national reflection on the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in Liberia.
“Violence against women is still a serious problem in our society, and silence or indifference only allows it to continue,” AFELL stated, calling for the strengthening of institutions and a cultural shift that respects the safety and rights of every woman. AFELL concluded by reaffirming its solidarity with the government and people of South Africa and with all families affected by domestic violence. It pledged to closely monitor the investigation, emphasizing that the pursuit of justice for Madam Jackson is a critical test of Liberia’s collective commitment to ending violence against women.
“Justice for Madam Jackson is not only about one case, but it is also about reaffirming our collective commitment to ending violence against women and ensuring that every woman in Liberia can live free from fear,” the statement concluded. The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) was established on February 10, 1994, during Liberia’s civil crisis to protect vulnerable women and children from abuse and injustice following the collapse of legal systems, and has since grown into the nation’s preeminent organization championing gender equality and access to justice through its unique composition of female legal professionals.
