Dr. Jallah Barbu announced that a bill to establish war and economic crimes courts in Liberia will be available soon. The bill is being revised with input from experts and is crucial for the country’s transitional justice process. Advocates at a recent memorial event for massacre victims stressed the seriousness of accountability. They called for reparation and memorialization, emphasizing that peace cannot be achieved without justice.
In Liberia, Dr. Jallah Barbu, head of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts, announced that a bill for establishing the courts will be ready soon. The bill is being reinforced by a technical committee of experts and is based on a draft created by the Liberian National Bar Association in 2021, which remains unapproved by the legislature. Dr. Barbu emphasized the need for citizens to advocate for the bill’s passage as he pledged that the first indictments would occur in 2027.
The anticipated bill will outline critical elements such as the court’s model, location, staffing, security measures, and chambers. Despite the death of notorious figure Prince Johnson, opposition within the legislature persists. Dr. Barbu called on the public to engage lawmakers on this issue, emphasizing that establishing war crimes courts could lead to progress and unity rather than conflict.
During a recent memorial event for massacre victims, Dr. Barbu reiterated, “The law is a fair law… Accountability is the name of the game.” The sentiments for justice were echoed by other speakers. Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law for national reconciliation and urged President Boakai to reconsider the position of Mr. Lewis Brown, a suspect in economic crimes.
The memorial honored victims of massacres, including the Carter Camp massacre in 1993, attributed largely to the National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL). Many attendees pressed for accountability, with advocates denouncing the lack of progress in addressing historical crimes. The absence of direct accountability remains a crucial issue, despite a recent US court ruling against a former military commander linked to atrocities.
Calls for justice emphasized that true peace cannot exist without accountability. Participants stressed that reparations and memorialization of victims are essential for healing. Mr. Beiah from the Liberia Peacebuilding Office stated, “There can be no development without peace and there can be no peace without justice.” Additionally, human rights advocates have called for support for victims and highlighted the importance of implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations for reparations and memorial sites.
Despite pledges from the justice minister for reparations and memorial sites, a lack of action leaves many victims feeling neglected. This situation raises concerns, particularly regarding the government’s recent initiatives, such as plans to exhume and reinter bodies of slain former leaders, which may complicate future court proceedings.
This report reflects ongoing efforts for transitional justice in Liberia, advocating for accountability while addressing the concerns for victims’ rights and memories amidst a complicated political landscape.
Overall, the establishment of war and economic crimes courts in Liberia is crucial for addressing past injustices and fostering national healing. Dr. Jallah Barbu’s developments indicate progress, yet substantial legislative hurdles remain. The vocal demand from citizens for accountability and reparations highlights the urgent need for legislative action and the fulfillment of promises made by the government regarding transitional justice. As Liberia moves forward, the commitment to justice and reconciliation will be paramount in determining the nation’s future stability and peace.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
