By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has renewed the mandate of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia, headed by Cllr. Dr. Jallah A. Barbu, extending its operations for an additional year as part of ongoing efforts to advance transitional justice and strengthen accountability mechanisms in the country.
In an Executive Order No. 164 issued on Sunday, May 3, 2026, the President emphasized that the renewal builds on previous executive actions and reflects the government’s continued commitment to addressing past atrocities and economic crimes. The order follows earlier mandates established under Executive Orders No. 131 and 148.
According to the release, the Office has already made notable progress, including conducting extensive research and consultations with both local and international stakeholders. These efforts have culminated in the drafting of two key legislative instruments: a bill to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court and another to create a National Anti-Corruption Court.
President Boakai stated in the order that “the successful completion of these tasks demonstrates Liberia’s commitment to transitional justice, and accountability as well as the fight against impunity and corruption.” He added that the process also aligns with Liberia’s obligations under international treaties and conventions.
The President stressed that the continued existence of the Office remains essential to ensure coordination with international partners, mobilize resources, and provide technical guidance for the full operationalization of the proposed courts. The Office will also maintain oversight responsibilities until the courts are fully established.
Under the renewed mandate, the Office will continue to operate with its current composition, supported by a secretariat and professional staff. Its Executive Director will oversee ongoing activities unless otherwise directed by the President.
The Executive Order outlines several key responsibilities for the Office during the extension period. These include engaging international partners to secure funding, providing technical support to the Legislature, and developing comprehensive frameworks for the courts’ implementation.
Additionally, the Office is required to maintain strict transparency standards by submitting quarterly operational and financial reports to the President through the Minister of Justice. “This shall be void of political influence and guided strictly by legal considerations,” the order emphasized, underscoring the importance of credibility and independence.
Funding for the Office will remain at an annual allocation of US$2 million, disbursed quarterly through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning. The Office will continue to function as a semi-independent entity within the Ministry of Justice’s budget framework.
The Executive Order also sets clear timelines for implementation. Within 60 days, the Office must present a resource mobilization and stakeholder engagement plan. Within 90 days, it is expected to submit a legislative support framework to facilitate the passage of the drafted bills.
Furthermore, within 120 days, the Office must deliver detailed implementation plans covering logistical, administrative, and financial requirements for both courts. A mid-term progress report is expected within six months, while quarterly reporting will begin no later than July 31, 2026.
Looking ahead, the Office is mandated to begin preparations for its eventual dissolution by March 1, 2027, with a final report and transition plan due by April 15, 2027. President Boakai concluded by affirming that “nothing in this Executive Order shall be interpreted to interfere with, hinder, or diminish the rights of any citizen of the Republic of Liberia,” reinforcing safeguards for civil liberties as the process unfolds.
