By G. Watson Richards
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has received draft bills seeking the establishment of a Special War Crimes Court and a National Anti-Corruption Court as part of efforts to strengthen accountability and public confidence in government.
The draft legislations were presented at the Executive Mansion by the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia.
The office recently received a one-year extension through Executive Order No. 164, signed by President Boakai on May 1, 2026, to continue work toward setting up both courts.
Speaking during the presentation, President Boakai said the proposed courts are intended to strengthen Liberia’s justice system and reinforce the rule of law.
“I didn’t come to this position to look for precedence. We came on a rescue mission,” the President said, adding that the process is about promoting justice and accountability, not targeting individuals.
He noted that Liberia has a responsibility to uphold international standards on justice and human rights, stressing that accountability remains important to national reconciliation and long-term stability.
The President also reflected on Liberia’s civil conflict, saying the country must remember the victims and ensure that past mistakes are not repeated.
According to him, leadership requires doing what is right even when it may be politically difficult.
President Boakai linked the initiative to his Administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, stating that tackling corruption and impunity is necessary to rebuild trust in public institutions and ensure national resources benefit all Liberians.
“This exercise is to make our country respected again,” he said while calling on lawmakers and citizens to support the passage of the bills.
The draft legislations will now be forwarded to the National Legislature for consideration as the Government continues efforts to establish legal mechanisms aimed at promoting accountability and strengthening democratic governance in Liberia.
