MONROVIA, LIBERIA — The Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), a civil society organization in Liberia on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, commended the Liberia National Police (LNP) for reopening the investigation into the death of Emmanuel Barthan Nyeswa, the former Director of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA). STAND believes this decision is a critical step toward justice, reinforcing the rule of law and providing much-needed closure for Nyeswa’s grieving family.
STAND asserts that revisiting this unresolved case is vital for establishing accountability within Liberia’s democratic framework. The organization highlights that without justice, democracy cannot flourish. They emphasize that the police must pursue the investigation with determination, following every piece of evidence thoroughly to ensure a comprehensive inquiry.
The reopening of Nyeswa’s case is seen by STAND as a chance to address broader issues of accountability. They urge the LNP not only to focus on Nyeswa’s death but also to expand their investigations to include other mysterious deaths that have remained unresolved. These cases, involving individuals such as Albert Peters, Gifty Lama, George B. Fahnbutu, Agent Melvin Earley, Sgt. Bobby Manneh, and Amanda Nebo, have left many questions unanswered and demand rigorous scrutiny.
STAND points out that the LNP has already identified several individuals, including former high-ranking officials, as “persons of interest” in the Nyeswa investigation. The organization insists that the police must conduct this inquiry impartially, ensuring that the rights of all involved are protected while following the evidence wherever it leads, regardless of political affiliations or positions.
The organization stresses the importance of maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the investigation. They caution the LNP against allowing any form of partisan bias to interfere, as such interference could hinder justice and allow perpetrators to evade accountability. STAND emphasizes that all investigations must adhere strictly to legal boundaries to restore public confidence in Liberia’s justice system.
STAND acknowledges that although the reopening of the investigation is overdue, it represents a crucial step toward building a just society. The organization calls on the Boakai administration to recognize its responsibility in upholding justice, particularly for victims and families affected by these unresolved tragedies. They remind the government that addressing these cases is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative.
In its statement, STAND raises concerns about the status of Ms. Queen Johnson, who was previously identified as a “person of interest” in another high-profile investigation. They urge that her case be resolved through the appropriate legal channels, emphasizing the necessity of a fair and unbiased justice system.
To ensure the credibility and transparency of these investigations, STAND recommends that the Boakai administration seek assistance from independent bodies and international partners. They argue that such collaboration is essential to prevent political interference and to ensure that the investigations are conducted with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
STAND’s call to action underscores a broader demand for accountability and justice in Liberia. The organization urges the government to fulfill its promises to the people, ensuring that no case is left unresolved and that the rule of law is upheld for all citizens.
This renewed investigation offers a pivotal opportunity for Liberia to demonstrate its commitment to justice and accountability, setting a precedent for addressing other unresolved cases. STAND remains vigilant, advocating for a transparent process that leads to meaningful outcomes for victims and their families.
