MONROVIA – The Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L), Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, has called on Liberia’s three branches of government to urgently accelerate the passage of legislation establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) and the National Anti-Corruption Court (NACC), describing the proposed institutions as essential to ending decades of impunity and strengthening the rule of law.
In his message marking Liberia’s 179th Independence Day on July 26, Dr. Barbu said the country’s independence should be measured not only by political sovereignty but also by its commitment to justice, accountability, human rights, and ensuring that no individual is above the law.
His statement comes as Liberia continues to debate the creation of the long-awaited War and Economic Crimes Court, a recommendation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that has remained unimplemented for years despite sustained advocacy from victims’ groups, civil society organizations, and international partners.
Barbu praised President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for what he described as demonstrating the political will and providing financial support to advance the establishment of both the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court.
According to him, the Boakai administration’s commitment reflects a clear determination to confront impunity, strengthen democratic governance, and promote accountability within Liberia’s justice system.
The OWECC-L Executive Director also commended Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah, committee chairpersons, and members of the Legislature for their continued engagement in reviewing the draft legislation.
He emphasized that the Legislature’s constitutional responsibility will be critical in ensuring that the proposed courts are firmly grounded in law and capable of delivering credible and independent justice.
Despite acknowledging the progress made, Barbu stressed that the legislative process must now move with greater urgency.
He called on all branches of government and national stakeholders to expedite the review and passage of the draft laws, arguing that their enactment would represent a defining milestone in Liberia’s democratic development.
According to Barbu, establishing the two courts presents Liberia with a historic opportunity to permanently break from the legacy of civil war atrocities, corruption, human rights abuses, and the culture of impunity that has undermined public confidence in state institutions for decades.
He said the courts would not only strengthen accountability but also promote national reconciliation, deter future abuses, reinforce public trust in government institutions, and contribute to lasting peace and sustainable development.
Barbu also acknowledged the contributions of civil society organizations, victims’ associations, faith-based institutions, traditional leaders, youth and women’s groups, international partners, and members of the Liberian diaspora for sustaining advocacy for transitional justice and anti-corruption reforms.
He credited their technical support, advocacy, and continued engagement with keeping alive the national pursuit of justice for victims of war crimes, economic crimes, and corruption.
In one of the statement’s most notable disclosures, Barbu paid tribute to members of OWECC-L, revealing that staff continue to face threats and security risks while carrying out the institution’s mandate.
He praised their resilience and dedication, saying their sacrifices in pursuit of justice would ultimately be recognized by history.
Concluding his Independence Day message, Barbu urged Liberians to recommit themselves to justice, integrity, reconciliation, national unity, and respect for the rule of law, while calling for a future free from ethnic and tribal divisions.
The Executive Director maintained that the successful establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court would mark a significant step toward ensuring that Liberia’s independence is reflected not only in its sovereignty but also in equal justice, accountability, and lasting peace for all citizens.
