Monrovia, Liberia – Proceedings at Criminal Court “C” on Monday, March 3, 2025, came to a halt as the jury selection process for the trial of former high-profile government officials, including former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah and former Acting Justice Minister Nyanati Tuah, faced significant challenges.
Presiding Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie was forced to adjourn after both the prosecution and defense teams rejected all twenty-four prospective jurors presented for screening. With only one juror remaining, the court could not proceed under current procedures.
In response to the impasse, Judge Willie directed the Jury Management Department to produce an additional twenty-six prospective jurors, bringing the total pool to twenty-seven candidates. The new group will undergo screening and examination when the court reconvenes on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 9:00 AM.
Meanwhile, Judge Willie issued an arrest order for a prospective juror identified by ID number J30-9131, an Assistant Director for Gender at the National Bureau of Concessions. The juror failed to appear without explanation, prompting the judge to demand her presence at the next hearing. Failure to comply will result in either a 14-day jail sentence or a US$100 fine.
The court adjourned for the day, with proceedings set to resume promptly on Wednesday morning.
