MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Coalition for Justice in Liberia (CJL) has issued a strong call to the Liberian Senate to reject the nomination of Lewis Brown as Liberia’s Ambassador to the United Nations.
The group argues that this appointment undermines President Joseph Boakai’s stated commitment to justice and accountability, jeopardizing progress toward addressing Liberia’s history of human rights abuses and economic crimes.
The Senate has previously taken a pivotal step by passing a resolution advocating for the establishment of a war and economic crimes court. This initiative is a cornerstone of efforts to confront decades of crimes against humanity and economic injustices that have perpetuated a culture of impunity and hindered Liberia’s development.
President Boakai’s Executive Order 131, which established a vetting committee to select a director for the proposed war and economic crimes court, was widely seen as a landmark move toward justice and reconciliation.
However, the nomination of Mr. Brown, according to CJL, threatens to derail these efforts and tarnish Liberia’s credibility in the international community.
CJL highlights Mr. Brown’s controversial past, including his role as a senior official in the administration of former President Charles Taylor and his membership in the National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL).
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report explicitly recommended that Mr. Brown face prosecution for alleged involvement in crimes committed during Liberia’s civil wars.
The coalition contends that appointing Mr. Brown to represent Liberia at the United Nations—a body that upholds human rights and justice—sends a troubling message.
It risks emboldening perpetrators of war and economic crimes, delaying justice for the 250,000 victims of Liberia’s civil conflicts, and tarnishing Liberia’s global reputation.
The CJL calls on President Boakai to reconsider this nomination and urges the Senate to reject it outright. Such action, they assert, would reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to upholding international human rights standards, promoting the rule of law, and combating impunity.
“Rejecting this nomination is not only a matter of principle but also a critical step toward restoring trust in Liberia’s governance,” the coalition stated.
“It is an opportunity to demonstrate that Liberia is ready to prioritize justice, accountability, and the rights of its citizens over political considerations.”
The Coalition for Justice also appeals to citizens and international stakeholders to join in advocating for a future founded on accountability, reconciliation, and respect for human rights.
This, they emphasize, is essential for ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in Liberia.
