Monrovia—In a surprising turn of events, former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah made a voluntary appearance before Criminal Court “C” on Wednesday, September 25, to defend himself against multiple criminal allegations.
By: Willie Tokpa [email protected]
His presence dispelled rumors that he was attempting to evade justice.
The former finance minister arrived in Liberia early Wednesday morning at 4am and appeared in court just hours later, amidst heavy police presence at the Temple of Justice.
However, a member of Tweah’s legal team refuted the claim, confirming that Tweah arrived via the Roberts International Airport (RIA) and immediately headed to court.
“Tweah arrived early Wednesday morning via the RIA and, within a few hours, headed to court to answer the indictment,” the legal team member, who preferred anonymity, stated.
Upon Tweah’s arrival Wednesday, his lawyers presented a property valuation bond as surety, valued at US$ 8,000,000.00(Eight Million United States Dollars), which was duly registered, probated, and authorized by law to be sureties.
His appearance followed an indictment by the Montserrado Grand Jury, which was issued after the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) concluded its investigation into an alleged corruption scandal involving the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA).
The indictment includes six individuals, among them former Finance Minister Tweah, former Acting Justice Minister Cllr. Nyanti Tuan, and several other former officials, charged with crimes related to the FIA case.
Upon appearing in court, Tweah’s legal team presented an $8 million property valuation bond as surety. The bond was duly registered, probated, and approved by law. Judge Blamo Dixon, who presided over the case, accepted the bond, allowing Tweah to avoid detention.
The government, represented by Montserrado County Attorney Richard Scott, acknowledged the legality of the bond and did not object to its approval. After approximately 40 minutes, Tweah left the court with a smile, contrasting the speculation that he would be handcuffed or detained.
Tweah’s voluntary court appearance put to rest widespread rumors that he was fleeing the country to escape prosecution. His willingness to defend himself without incident challenges the narrative that he was avoiding justice.
Although Tweah did not address the media after the proceedings, his demeanor suggested confidence in the legal process. His legal team was informed that the trial would commence in mid-November.
Until then, Tweah is free to move about without fear of arrest, despite earlier concerns that he would face detention ahead of his trial.
