By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Monrovia July 10, 2026: Suspended Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) Commissioner Cllr. T. Dempster Brown has petitioned Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, Sr., alleging that his office was forcibly entered while he is under indefinite suspension pending an investigation.
On June 26, 2026, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai suspended Brown without pay pending the outcome of an investigation ordered by the Ministry of Justice.
According to the Executive Mansion, the suspension followed allegations by fellow INCHR commissioners that Brown forged their signatures on a petition for a writ of habeas corpus filed before the Supreme Court in November 2024 without their knowledge or consent.
He was also accused of failing to convene statutory board meetings for nearly two years and unlawfully withholding commissioners’ salaries and benefits.
According to a letter dated July 8, 2026, Brown alleged that Commissioner Mohammed E. Fahnbulleh entered his office at approximately 1:30 p.m. without providing an explanation.
Brown said that later that evening, around 8:00 p.m., Fahnbulleh returned to the office after working hours and examined documents and other materials.
Brown stated that since receiving his suspension letter, he has not entered his office or handled official or personal property and said he has no knowledge of the reason for the alleged search.
Brown also alleged that Fahnbulleh has referenced his relationship with senior officials at the Executive Mansion, including Legal Advisor Cllr. Bushuben Keita and Press Secretary Kula Fofana.
He said such relationships should not be used to justify actions that undermine the rule of law or the independence of the Commission.
Brown also claimed that on July 7, Fahnbulleh ordered armed Liberia National Police officers to the INCHR headquarters, a move Brown said created fear among staff and visitors.
Brown said the alleged actions could undermine the credibility and independence of the INCHR, which holds “A” status accreditation under the Paris Principles. He said actions that compromise the Commission’s independence could place that accreditation at risk.
Brown appealed to Justice Minister Tweh to intervene to protect the independence of the Commission during the ongoing investigation.
“I am hoping that you will intervene as soon as possible to protect the sanctity of the Commission at this time,” Brown wrote.
