The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has praised President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for submitting draft bills to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court and a National Anti-Corruption Court, describing the move as an important step toward justice and accountability in Liberia.
In a statement released Friday in Monrovia, the women’s organization said the President’s action shows commitment to addressing impunity, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting national reconciliation after years of calls for justice from victims of Liberia’s civil wars and corruption-related abuses.
WONGOSOL said the proposed courts could help address long-standing injustices, rebuild public trust in state institutions, and give hope to survivors of the country’s brutal conflicts, especially women, children, and communities heavily affected by violence.
“This historic action by the President shows commitment to sustaining peace, strengthening the rule of law, fighting impunity, and promoting national healing and reconciliation,” the organization said.
The group noted that the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court follows recommendations from Liberia’s 2009 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report, which called for accountability for serious crimes committed during the civil wars.
WONGOSOL also said the establishment of a National Anti-Corruption Court is necessary as Liberians continue to demand stronger action against corruption and the misuse of public resources.
“Accountability remains important to reconciliation and democratic governance,” the statement added. “The establishment of both courts presents Liberia with an opportunity to address past injustices, strengthen institutions, and restore public confidence.”
The organization also commended the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) and its Executive Director, Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, for efforts made so far in advancing the process.
WONGOSOL acknowledged the role of women’s groups, survivors, grassroots organizations, and civil society actors in keeping the demand for justice and reconciliation alive over the years.
The organization paid tribute to survivors of the civil wars, especially women and girls who suffered sexual violence, displacement, and trauma, saying the latest development gives renewed hope that their suffering has not been forgotten.
“To survivors of war and violence, especially women and girls who suffered sexual violence, displacement, trauma, and other atrocities during Liberia’s conflict, this moment brings renewed hope,” the statement said.
WONGOSOL also called on members of the National Legislature to act quickly in reviewing and passing the draft bills into law.
“The Liberian people, and the international community, are watching closely and expecting decisive action,” the organization stated, urging lawmakers to put national interest first.
The group said passage of the bills would help strengthen accountability, restore trust in public institutions, and support Liberia’s peacebuilding and democratic progress.
“Justice delayed has been painful for many survivors, but justice pursued with sincerity can restore hope, strengthen peace, and reaffirm our shared humanity as a nation,” WONGOSOL concluded.
