MONROVIA – In a decisive move to address longstanding issues of corruption and impunity, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia has appointed Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi as the Executive Director of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and bring justice to victims of the country’s civil conflicts.
In his appointment letter dated June 18, 2024, President Boakai expressed his confidence in Massaquoi’s ability to lead the office and expedite the implementation of the court’s mandate. He emphasized the historic nature of this initiative, noting that the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court is pivotal in Liberia’s fight against corruption and impunity. “Combating these corrosive practices in our society will contribute to peace, sustainable development, and prosperity of our country,” President Boakai stated.
The appointment follows the signing of Executive Order #131 on May 2, 2024, which officially established the office of the War and Economic Crimes Court. The signing ceremony, attended by government officials, justice and peace advocates, the interfaith community, and victims of Liberia’s civil conflicts, highlighted the broad support for this significant initiative.
During the ceremony, President Boakai stressed the importance of the court in providing justice and closure for the devastating civil conflicts that claimed the lives of over 250,000 people, including peacekeepers from the West African Peacekeeping force and the United Nations. He expressed gratitude to the National Legislature for passing the resolution that urged the establishment of the court and commended the tireless efforts of justice and peace advocates.
President Boakai called for national unity in addressing the root causes and lasting effects of the violence that plagued Liberia. He emphasized that justice and healing are crucial for peace and harmony to prevail. “The establishment of the court is a significant step towards restoring respectability and integrity to Liberia,” he noted.
In his concluding remarks, President Boakai appealed to all Liberians to support the court’s establishment and to work collectively towards building a reconciled and united nation. He urged everyone to embrace the motto, “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia,” focusing on creating a future free from the shadows of the past.
Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi, a license Counsellor-at-Law, member of the Supreme Court Bar, with 13-year of experience appointment and the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court represent a critical juncture in Liberia’s journey towards justice and sustainable development. The government’s commitment to the rule of law and its stand against impunity signal a new era of accountability and integrity for the nation.
