MONROVIA – Criminal Court “C” Judge Blamo Dixon has rejected two motions filed by government prosecutors in the ongoing trial of former officials from ex-President George Weah’s administration, including ex-Finance Minister Samuel Tweah, former National Security Advisor Jefferson Karmoh, and former Solicitor General Cllr. Nyanti Tuan. The accused, alongside D. Moses P. Cooper, former Acting Financial Controller of the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), and Stanley S. Ford, former FIA Director General, face charges of economic sabotage, fraud, and criminal conspiracy.
During the proceedings, Montserrado County Attorney Richard Scott sought subpoenas for Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) Commissioner General Dorbor Jallah, arguing that his testimony was essential to validate the defense’s surety bond. However, the defense, led by Cllr. Arthur Johnson, contested the motion, citing Chapters 63 and 13 of Liberia’s Civil and Criminal Procedure Laws. Johnson argued that bond validity falls under the court’s purview and does not require third-party input.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Judge Dixon ruled in favor of the defense, rejecting the prosecution’s motions. He explained that under Liberian law, challenges to a surety bond must follow a formal process, including filing a notice of exceptions within three days of the bond’s approval. The judge further clarified that this process allows for a court review to determine the bond’s sufficiency, with provisions for replacing it if found inadequate.
Judge Dixon emphasized the constitutional protections afforded to the accused, referencing Article 21(d)(1) and (d)(2) of the Liberian Constitution, which guarantee the right to bail and prohibit excessive bail. He reiterated that the defendants, as former officials, are entitled to due process.
The court granted the defense’s bond, enabling the accused to remain free on bail, and gave the prosecution 72 hours to submit additional evidence or objections. The case, which has garnered significant public interest, continues at Criminal Court “C” in Monrovia, raising critical questions about balancing justice with constitutional rights.
