Washington, D.C., USA – November 18, 2024
The Coalition for Justice in Liberia (CJL) commends His Excellency President Joseph Nyumah Boakai for taking a decisive and transformative step toward ensuring accountability and justice in Liberia. By rescinding the controversial appointment of Counselor Jonathan Massaquoi and initiating an inclusive, transparent selection process, President Boakai has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to addressing war and economic crimes that have plagued the nation’s history. This monumental decision has set a significant precedent for justice, integrity, and accountability in Liberia.
In response to widespread calls for reform from human rights advocates, civil society organizations, international partners, and most importantly, the victims of Liberia’s civil wars, President Boakai established a diverse vetting committee comprising representatives from the Liberian National Bar Association, civil society, and human rights experts. This inclusive and transparent process has culminated in the appointment of Counselor Jallah Barbu as the head of Liberia’s War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC).
Counselor Jallah Barbu, an esteemed legal scholar and former Chairperson of Liberia’s Law Reform Commission, brings unparalleled expertise to the role. With his distinguished career, including serving as Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia, Counselor Barbu has consistently championed the rule of law and the principles of accountability. His leadership of the WECC is a pivotal step in addressing the impunity that has long obstructed Liberia’s journey toward peace and justice.
This action aligns with international human rights instruments and domestic frameworks advocating accountability for grave violations. Liberia’s obligations under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)underscore the need for accountability mechanisms for war crimes and economic crimes. Furthermore, this initiative reinforces Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommendations, which highlighted the necessity of a war and economic crimes court to achieve national healing.
“Counselor Barbu’s appointment represents a renewed hope for thousands of Liberians who have endured decades of suffering without justice,” stated Lovetta Tugbeh, Founder of CJL. “This court signifies a critical step in addressing historical injustices and ending the entrenched culture of impunity. It offers a pathway for national healing and reconciliation by ensuring that those responsible for heinous crimes face justice.”
While acknowledging that the establishment of the WECC cannot undo the atrocities of the past, CJL emphasizes its potential to restore public confidence in Liberia’s justice system. This step also strengthens Liberia’s standing as a nation committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights.
CJL urges the Liberian government, civil society, and international partners to provide the necessary financial, technical, and logistical support to ensure the court’s effectiveness. Counselor Barbu’s leadership must be complemented by a team of professionals with unblemished reputations and expertise in international criminal law, human rights, and transitional justice.
To foster inclusivity and public trust, CJL advocates for a nationwide consultative dialogue, engaging Liberians across all counties and the diaspora. This dialogue will integrate the TRC’s recommendations and reinforce a sense of collective ownership over the court’s mandate.
The Coalition for Justice in Liberia remains steadfast in its support for this historic development. Counselor Jallah Barbu’s leadership represents a transformative moment in Liberia’s pursuit of justice, peace, and reconciliation. CJL reaffirms its commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure the court fulfills its mandate of accountability and contributes to a lasting legacy of healing and national unity
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