MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has appointed Cllr. Jallah Barbu as the Executive Director of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC), effective immediately. This announcement, made on Friday, November 1, 2024, by Presidential Press Secretary Madam Kula Bonah Nyei, follows the recommendation of a presidential search committee that selected Cllr. Barbu as the ideal candidate, citing his extensive experience and qualifications.
Cllr. Barbu brings to the role a distinguished career, including service as the Head of the Law Reform Commission and as Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia. President Boakai expressed his full confidence in Cllr. Barbu’s ability to lead this vital office with a steadfast dedication to justice and loyalty to the nation. The President urged Barbu to uphold principles of integrity, professionalism, and commitment in this new role, which will be pivotal in Liberia’s pursuit of justice.
This appointment marks another step in Liberia’s journey toward addressing its legacy of conflict and impunity. On May 2, 2024, President Boakai signed Executive Order #131, officially establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court. The signing ceremony was attended by government officials, justice and peace advocates, members of the interfaith community, and survivors of Liberia’s civil wars, underscoring the widespread support for justice and accountability.
President Boakai, during the ceremony, highlighted the significance of the court in bringing long-sought justice and closure to the painful history of Liberia’s 14-year civil conflict. He thanked the National Legislature for its historic resolution calling for the court’s establishment and commended the unwavering efforts of advocates who have long pursued peace and justice in Liberia. Boakai emphasized that for peace and national harmony to prevail, the nation must address the roots and repercussions of past violence, and he affirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and rejecting impunity.
In closing, President Boakai called upon all Liberians to support the court’s establishment and work together toward a reconciled and united Liberia. He urged citizens to embrace the national motto, “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia,” as the country moves forward, aiming to build a future free from the shadows of its past conflicts.
