By Socrates Smythe Saywon | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – A coalition of leading Liberian civil society organizations has thrown its full support behind efforts to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court and a National Anti-Corruption Court, describing the proposed institutions as critical instruments for ending decades of impunity and strengthening accountability in Liberia.
In a joint press statement issued Wednesday, June 10, 2026, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), and Sisters AID Liberia called on lawmakers to provide unwavering support for the two landmark bills currently before the National Legislature.
Speaking on behalf of the civil society organizations (CSOs) at CENTAL headquarters in Monrovia, CENTAL Executive Director Anderson Miamen said Liberia is at a defining moment in its quest for justice and accountability after years of delays, inaction, and unfulfilled promises.
“For many years, the hope to end the culture of impunity for those who committed atrocities during Liberia’s brutal civil conflict seemed bleak,” the organizations stated. “On top of this, corruption thrives with little or no action to hold those accused accountable.”
The CSOs said these longstanding challenges are among the reasons they are strongly supporting ongoing transitional justice efforts, including the establishment of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the submission of legislation seeking to create both a War and Economic Crimes Court and a National Anti-Corruption Court.
According to the organizations, the introduction of the bills marks a decisive chapter in Liberia’s long struggle for justice, institutional reform, and national renewal. They emphasized that the proposed courts have the potential to address unresolved grievances stemming from the country’s civil wars while also strengthening efforts to combat public sector corruption.
The statement was issued ahead of a High-Level Dedicated Technical Working Session scheduled for June 11-12, involving members of the designated legislative committee responsible for reviewing the proposed laws. The CSOs described the gathering as far more than a routine meeting, arguing that it represents a national responsibility at a time when Liberia is finally taking concrete steps to confront impunity and reinforce the rule of law.
“This session is not a ceremonial gathering; it is a national obligation,” the organizations declared, stressing that lawmakers have a duty to carefully examine the legal, institutional, and operational frameworks necessary for the successful implementation of both courts.
The coalition further welcomed recent actions by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, noting that his formal submission of the bills to the Legislature demonstrates executive commitment to accountability. They also praised the extension of the mandate of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court, accompanied by continued funding support, as evidence of determination to maintain momentum toward justice reforms.
“These actions reflect a growing national consensus that Liberia can no longer postpone justice, nor continue to ignore the demands of victims, survivors, and citizens who have waited for more than 20 years for closure and accountability,” the statement noted.
The organizations argued that the upcoming technical session will provide legislators with expert analysis and practical guidance needed to make informed decisions on the bills. They emphasized that informed leadership is both a constitutional responsibility and a moral obligation as the nation seeks to address historical injustices and persistent corruption.
The CSOs also commended lawmakers who have already committed to participating in the session, describing their willingness to engage as a demonstration of courage and commitment to national progress.
“Their readiness to engage reflects courage, foresight, and a deep respect for the Liberian people,” the organizations said. “By choosing to participate, these lawmakers are showing that they stand on the right side of history, aligned with victims, survivors, and citizens who demand justice and accountability.”
The coalition maintained that such leadership helps restore public confidence in the Legislature and reassures citizens that their elected representatives are prepared to confront difficult truths while advancing reforms that strengthen democracy and uphold the rule of law.
At the same time, the organizations challenged lawmakers who remain hesitant about the process to follow the example of their colleagues and participate fully in the discussions.
“We urge them to attend the session without excuses, engage constructively, and prioritize national interest over political comfort,” the statement said. “While the President has proactively acted by submitting the bills and extending OWECC’s mandate, it is now the Legislature’s turn to act with equal resolve and integrity to timely enact both instruments.”
Reaffirming their commitment to the process, the CSOs pledged to continue providing technical support, independent monitoring, public engagement, and transparency initiatives aimed at ensuring the courts become credible and effective institutions.
As Liberia advances what many view as one of its most significant justice and governance reforms since the end of the civil war, the organizations concluded with a forceful reminder that the country can no longer afford delays.
“Liberia has waited long enough,” the groups declared. “Justice and accountability delayed must no longer be justice and accountability denied.”
