Barbu names Justice Minister Tweh, Legal Adviser Keita, and NSA Woods; says reviews have stalled at executive level
MONROVIA, April 22, 2026 — The Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia (OWECC-L) has accused senior government officials of delaying review of draft bills needed to advance legislation for the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court.
OWECC-L Executive Director Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu made the allegation during a radio interview in Monrovia, claiming “non-cooperative attitudes” from offices expected to provide technical input on the drafts.
According to Barbu, OWECC-L submitted two draft laws to the Ministry of Justice and the Office of the President for review before they are transmitted to the Legislature.
He named Justice Minister Oswald N. Tweh, Presidential Legal Adviser Cllr. Busheben Keita and National Security Adviser Atty. Samuel Kofi Woods, as officials he believes have not acted on the documents.
He said continued delays could undermine accountability and reconciliation efforts after Liberia’s civil conflicts. “There are elements in this government that are stalling the War Crimes Court process because they want a failed process,” Barbu said.
Liberia’s civil wars (1989–2003) left an estimated 250,000 people dead and displaced many others. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommended a special court to prosecute alleged gross human rights violations and economic crimes linked to the conflict, but implementation has remained slow over the years.
Barbu said he believes the President supports the court, but claimed progress is being “strangulated” by people he alleged may have participated in the war or are seeking to shield relatives and associates who could face prosecution if a court is set up.
OWECC-L called on the executive and legislative branches to show what it described as the political will to move the process forward, arguing that establishing the court is vital to lasting peace.
Civil society organizations and international partners have long urged Liberia to act on the TRC recommendations, warning that delays risk entrenching impunity and weakening the rule of law.
Barbu said OWECC-L will continue engagements with government institutions, civil society and international partners, but stressed that action by key offices is necessary for the draft bills to reach lawmakers.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.
Background
OWECC-L is a national body mandated to lead efforts toward the creation of a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia. It works with government and civil society stakeholders to promote justice, accountability and reconciliation for crimes committed during Liberia’s civil conflicts.
