The Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC-L), Dr. Jallah A. Barbu, has announced that full operations of the courts are projected to commence in November 2027.
Many had doubted the establishment of the court, but recent revelations indicate that the Government of Liberia is serious in its quest to prosecute war and economic criminals for the atrocities committed during the country’s fourteen years of bloody civil conflict.
Dr. Barbu made this announcement during the launch of the National Outreach Campaign, a collaborative initiative between OWECC-L and Transitional Justice actors, aimed at engaging citizens throughout Liberia. This campaign seeks to address issues of impunity and promote accountability. The launch, held on Saturday, July 19, 2005, took place under the theme “Justice for All.” Activities will extend to all fifteen counties and the diaspora.
Dr. Barbu described the launch of the National Outreach Campaign as a significant milestone in Liberia’s journey toward establishing both the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court—two institutions that have been long-awaited and are designed to address past atrocities, combat impunity, and promote national healing.
He emphasized that the campaign aims to enhance public understanding of the courts’ mandates and Liberia’s transitional justice roadmap, while also encouraging inclusive dialogue among citizens, survivors of war crimes, and stakeholders. Community participation in justice reform and civic education is also a key objective. Dr. Barbu stated, “Montserrado is not all of Liberia, and we will work to ensure that every county is fully involved in this process, as justice must be accessible to all.”
The campaign is guided by the National Communication and Outreach Strategy for Transitional Justice, which was developed through consultations with civil society, media professionals, traditional leaders, and international partners. It will include truth-telling initiatives and the creation of safe spaces for survivors to share their stories. Key messages include “Justice is everybody’s business; you are not forgotten.”
Additional campaign messages highlight that “Justice is everyone’s right” and that “delayed justice is not denied justice,” debunking a common misconception. These messages will be communicated through various platforms, such as radio, social media, community theaters, and grassroots mobilization, ensuring accessibility across Liberia’s diverse communities.
Furthermore, Dr. Barbu revealed that the OWECC-L plans to fully operationalize the War and Economic Crimes Courts in November 2027, following the launch of the National Anti-Corruption Court in November 2026. He stated that these courts represent a critical step toward ending impunity and restoring public trust in Liberia’s institutions. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reaffirmed his commitment to these reforms, urging all Liberians to support the process and actively participate in shaping a just and transparent future.
Dr. Barbu also pledged his commitment to work not just for himself but for the future of Liberia’s children. Madam Christine Umutoni, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Liberia, expressed that the outreach campaign will help build trust and credibility within society, promote inclusive community involvement, and drive positive change for a better Liberia. She added, “I pray for hope, change, and transformation in all dimensions.”
