By: Archie Boan
The Liberia Massacred Survivors Association (LIMASA), a victims’ and survivors’ advocacy group, has honored the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) in recognition of its sustained efforts to advance justice for war affected communities across the country.
The honor was conferred through OWECC-L’s Executive Director, Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, whose leadership LIMASA praised for steering the institution through critical stages of its mandate. The association specifically commended OWECC-L for submitting draft legislations seeking the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court and a Special Anti-Corruption Court to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh.
The submission of the draft laws aligns with Executive Order No. 131 later renewed as Executive Order No. 148 which mandates OWECC-L to lay the legal and institutional groundwork for the creation of these accountability mechanisms aimed at addressing grave crimes committed during Liberia’s civil conflict and entrenched economic corruption.
Speaking on behalf of LIMASA, Chairperson Mr. Peterson Sonyah acknowledged what he described as the “tremendous work” of Cllr. Barbu and his team in pushing forward the long-delayed justice agenda. He also expressed appreciation for OWECC-L’s decision to allocate US$50,000 from its institutional budget to support LIMASA’s operations, a move he said demonstrates a practical commitment to survivor-centered justice.
“This recognition is not only for the office, but for the consistency, courage, and dedication shown by the leadership of OWECC-L in standing with victims and survivors,” Sonyah noted.
In response, Cllr. Barbu applauded LIMASA for its steadfast support of the War and Economic Crimes Court process, particularly during periods when OWECC-L faced financial constraints and institutional challenges. He described LIMASA as a principled civil society organization that remained committed to the cause of justice even in difficult times.
“LIMASA stood with us when the process was under strain,” Cllr. Barbu said. “Their resilience and advocacy have helped keep the quest for accountability alive.”
