President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has announced the formation of a committee tasked with the reconstitution of the leadership for the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court.
This development marks a critical step in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to address war crimes and economic corruption through specialized judicial mechanisms.
The Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court was established under Executive Order #131, which set out to create a Special War Crimes Court and an Anti-Corruption Court for Liberia.
This initiative aims to provide a dedicated framework for prosecuting serious offenses related to war crimes and corruption, ensuring that such cases are handled with the requisite expertise and impartiality.
The newly formed Search and Vetting Committee is composed of a diverse group of institutions and organizations, reflecting a broad spectrum of national and international expertise. The Ministry of Justice will chair the committee, supported by representatives from several key bodies:
National Civil Society Council of Liberia is heighted to focus on transitional justice and plays a critical role in advocating for justice and accountability.
A national NGO will be dedicated to human rights, contributing insights into the human rights dimensions of the court’s work.
According to a press released issued by the Ministry of Information, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional body will be providing expertise and oversight on regional justice and security issues.
Among other institution is the United Nations Office in Liberia whose local office will bring international support and standards to the process.
Independent National Commission on Human Rights on the other hand will ensure that human rights considerations are central to the committee’s recommendations.
Liberia National Bar Association is among the vetting committee that will representing legal professionals. This association will offer insights into the legal and procedural aspects of the court.
Inter-Religious Council of Liberia will Provide moral and ethical perspective on the process.
The African Union Mission to Liberia is expected to offer broader African context and support.
The Committee has been tasked with a comprehensive mandate to vet, recruit, and recommend candidates for the position of Executive Director of the Office. This role will be pivotal in developing and implementing the mechanisms, procedures, and processes required for the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Courts.
President Boakai has directed the Committee to complete its task and submit its recommendations within 21 working days. This timeline underscores the urgency and importance the administration places on ensuring a transparent and effective process.
The reconstitution of the Office is driven by President Boakai’s commitment to ensuring that the process leading to the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Courts is conducted with full transparency and broad-based public scrutiny. By involving a wide range of stakeholders, the administration aims to build a court system that is not only effective but also trusted by the public.
In the statement issued by the Minister of Information, President Boakai expressed gratitude to the former Executive Director Jonathan Massaquoi and their team for their services.
The President acknowledged their contributions while highlighting the need for renewed leadership to drive the next phase of this critical judicial reform.
The establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Courts represents a significant step forward for Liberia in addressing past injustices and preventing future corruption.
By reconstituting the leadership and ensuring a rigorous selection process, President Boakai and his administration are reaffirming their commitment to justice and accountability.
As the Search and Vetting Committee begins its work, the public and international community will be closely watching the process. The outcomes will likely set important precedents for how Liberia handles complex issues of war crimes and corruption moving forward.
