Liberia’s President Boakai made a resounding declaration regarding the country’s fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice. The President emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and combating corruption to drive the country’s development agenda forward. As part of this commitment, the President announced the establishment of an office to assess the feasibility of creating a War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC), aiming to hold those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity accountable for their actions in a court of law.
In his inaugural speech, the President highlighted the devastating toll of war on the nation, with a quarter of a million people perishing during the conflict, underlining the urgency of addressing this national tragedy and seeking closure. The intention to consult with the United Nations for guidance and support underscores the commitment to aligning the potential court with international standards, ensuring its credibility and fairness.
Additionally, President Boakai stressed the importance of legislative involvement in this process to prevent any perception of bias or personal vendettas, emphasizing the need for transparency and objectivity. Furthermore, the President recognized the significance of establishing a conducive environment for business, including enforcing predictable business practices and strengthening the rule of law, which can attract investment and contribute to economic growth and job creation.
Education was also identified as a crucial component of national development. President Boakai acknowledged that the current educational system may not be fully equipped to meet the country’s transformative needs, signaling the government’s intent to reevaluate and enhance vocational training and science education to support workforce development and improve the lives of the Liberian people.
In summary, President Boakai’s vision, encapsulated in the ARREST agenda, places a strong emphasis on combating corruption, upholding the rule of law, seeking justice for wartime atrocities, fostering economic growth, and improving the educational system to drive meaningful development outcomes for the people of Liberia.
