CSOs Support Appointment of Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi as Executive Director of Liberia’s War and Economic Crimes Court
Dozens of civil society organizations (CSOs) have thrown their weight behind President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s decision to appoint Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi as Executive Director of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court. This support was declared under the auspices of the Liberia NGOs Network (LINNK) and Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND).
In a joint resolution, the CSOs highlighted Liberia’s ongoing struggle with national challenges, even 21 years after the civil war. They pointed out persistent issues like violent crime and human rights abuses that continue to threaten the nation’s peace and stability under successive governments.
The CSOs commended President Boakai for showing the political will to take crucial steps towards establishing a war and economic crimes court to prosecute alleged perpetrators. They emphasized that this initiative not only addresses Liberia’s urgent issue of impunity but also provides an opportunity for progress in a nation still grappling with the legacy of war.
“Liberia’s democratic governance has been hindered by weak infrastructure and institutional failures, despite the tragic loss of 250,000 innocent lives since the civil war,” the CSOs lamented.
They underscored the need to hold perpetrators of war crimes accountable, reflecting on Liberia’s dark history and the devastating impact of warlords-turned-politicians. The CSOs recalled the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and its recommendation for a special court to ensure justice for war and economic crimes.
However, despite efforts, international reports continue to paint a grim picture of Liberia, citing escalating violence, corruption, and economic disparity. The CSOs expressed concern over the vulnerability of Liberia’s youth to crime and drug abuse, exacerbated by a weak judicial system and widespread poverty.
“Corruption remains rampant across all administrations, deepening Liberia’s moral decline and fostering a culture of impunity,” they stated, highlighting that poverty affects 70% of Liberia’s population alongside rising unemployment and inflation.
Amid these challenges, the CSOs called for strengthened governance, equitable access to justice, and public accountability. They urged the government to capitalize on the War and Economic Crimes Court mandate to rebuild trust in Liberia’s judiciary.
In conclusion, they emphasized the importance of safeguarding Liberia’s democracy against external threats and promoting stability through transparent governance and freedom of speech for all citizens
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