The Coalition for Justice in Liberia (CJL) has called on President Joseph Boakai to leverage his participation at the United Nations General Assembly to secure international support for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia. The plea comes as Liberia continues to grapple with the legacy of its brutal civil wars, which claimed over 250,000 lives, including those of foreign nationals, and left countless survivors without reparations or justice.
CJL praised the Boakai administration’s efforts, particularly the recent signing of Executive Order 131, which sets the groundwork for creating the War and Economic Crimes Court. The executive order also establishes a vetting committee composed of civil society representatives and members of the Liberian National Bar Association to ensure that the court operates with integrity and impartiality.
However, the coalition believes these steps, while significant, are insufficient to achieve true justice and lasting peace in Liberia. The group urged President Boakai to use his platform at the United Nations to garner the full backing of the international community for the court’s establishment. They also called for the immediate implementation of the recommendations made by the Liberia Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), including reparations for victims and measures to address the underlying causes of the conflict.
“For too long, previous administrations have failed to confront the need for justice, which is fundamental to the rule of law and the foundation of good governance,” CJL said in a statement. “Without justice, Liberia risks remaining trapped in a cycle of instability, unable to move toward a future of peace and prosperity.”
Lovetta Tugbeh, the founder of the Coalition for Justice in Liberia, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advocating for justice and accountability. She emphasized that these principles are crucial for guiding Liberia toward reconciliation, development, and lasting peace.
CJL’s appeal to President Boakai highlights the urgency of international support in addressing the country’s troubled past and ensuring a stable and just future.
