By Our Reporter | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA — Calls for the release of detained jurors in the Samuel D. Tweah Jr. case intensified on Friday, July 24, 2026, as protesters gathered at the Monrovia Central Prison demanding that the Ministry of Justice secure the immediate release of the remaining 12 jurors.
The demonstrators, carrying placards and chanting “Free the Remaining 12 Jurors!”, argued that the continued detention of the jurors threatens public confidence in Liberia’s justice system and raises concerns about due process and judicial independence.
The protest followed the release of three jurors on Thursday, July 23, after they were reportedly identified as whistleblowers in the ongoing judicial controversy. The remaining 12 jurors remain in custody.
The jurors were detained after Criminal Court “C” Judge Ousman F. Feika overturned the jury’s not guilty verdict in the case involving former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr., declared a mistrial, and ordered an investigation into allegations of jury tampering.
The development has sparked national debate, with critics questioning whether the detention of the jurors represents a legitimate judicial action or an infringement on their rights.
During the protest outside the Monrovia Central Prison, Montserrado County Electoral District #9 Representative Frank Saah Foko Jr. issued a strongly worded statement calling for the unconditional release of the detained jurors and accusing the government of undermining democratic principles.
In a statement titled “Enough Is Enough! Free the Jurors. End the Witch-Hunt of Samuel D. Tweah. Dismiss Gregory Coleman!”, Foko said Liberia is approaching a critical moment in its democratic journey.
According to Foko, the controversy surrounding the jurors and Tweah is bigger than one individual, arguing that it represents a broader test of constitutional governance, judicial independence, and the rule of law.
“Today, the issue before the nation is not about Blue vs Green political colors, nor a struggle for one man. It is about whether democracy will survive and whether peace will be maintained amid state actions,” Foko stated.
The lawmaker endorsed the Congress for Democratic Change’s (CDC) announced policy of “Democratic Resistance”, describing it as a nonviolent approach aimed at defending constitutional rights and challenging what the opposition party considers the misuse of state institutions.
Foko said the movement draws inspiration from the civil resistance philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., arguing that peaceful civic action is necessary when citizens believe democratic values and constitutional protections are under threat.
“I stand with Samuel D. Tweah. I stand with the imprisoned jurors. And I stand with every Liberian who believes justice must never become an instrument of political intimidation,” Foko stated.
He called for the immediate release of the remaining jurors, warning that extraordinary judicial measures that raise public concerns could weaken confidence in Liberia’s justice system.
Beyond the juror controversy, Foko renewed his demand for the removal of Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman, citing what he described as failures in police accountability, alleged excessive use of force, and declining public trust in the institution.
The lawmaker referenced several incidents, including police responses to protests and other public security matters, while also raising concerns about the handling of Liberia’s largest reported cocaine seizure involving approximately 3,971 kilograms of suspected cocaine valued at US$317.68 million.
Foko questioned whether law enforcement agencies have maintained adequate transparency in the investigation and handling of the major drug case.
He also criticized the leadership decisions surrounding senior police appointments, including former Crime Services Division Chief Johnny Bola Dean, whose removal was linked to investigations surrounding the cocaine case.
Foko argued that repeated controversies involving senior police officials have damaged public confidence in the Liberia National Police and called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to appoint new leadership capable of restoring trust.
However, allegations made by Representative Foko regarding police officials, personal conduct, and possible links to criminal activities have not been independently verified, and relevant authorities have not publicly confirmed the claims.
The lawmaker concluded his statement by emphasizing that his demands are not driven by revenge or political rivalry but by what he described as the need to defend Liberia’s democratic institutions.
“Liberia deserves courts that inspire confidence rather than fear. Liberia deserves police officers who enjoy the confidence of the people they serve. Liberia deserves institutions that are impartial, professional, and accountable,” Foko stated.
The protest over the detained jurors adds to growing political and legal tensions surrounding the Samuel D. Tweah case, with increasing calls from opposition figures and civil society actors for transparency, fairness, and respect for due process as the matter continues through Liberia’s judicial system.
