The Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) has expressed strong commendation for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following their recent decision to approve the establishment of a Special Tribunal for The Gambia.
This tribunal aims to prosecute individuals responsible for gross human rights violations, marking a significant advancement in the fight against impunity in the region.
The resolution was passed during an ECOWAS summit held on December 13, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria. The OWECC-L highlighted that this landmark decision demonstrates a pivotal moment for human rights advocacy within West Africa, encouraging all rights groups to rally behind the initiative.
In a statement, the OWECC-L applauded the active involvement of Liberia’s President, Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr., in supporting this important regional effort and commended his commitment to strengthening accountability and combating impunity.
“This represents an unprecedented collaborative effort by ECOWAS to aid a member state in forming an international tribunal designated to investigate and prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity,” the statement read.
While celebrating this achievement, the OWECC-L also issued a clarion call for ECOWAS to extend similar support to Liberia as it advances its plans for establishing its own War and Economic Crimes Court and an Anti-Corruption Court. The Liberian government’s commitment to this initiative has been underscored by the recent appointment of esteemed law professor Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu as the Executive Director of OWECC-L.
The government has taken key steps in this direction, having issued both a legislative joint resolution and an executive order, paving the way for an office dedicated to the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia.
The OWECC-L emphasized that establishing these courts is essential for ensuring justice for victims of past atrocities and enhancing the rule of law in the country.
With the momentum gained from ECOWAS’s support for The Gambia, the OWECC-L remains optimistic about garnering similar backing for Liberia’s endeavors.
As Liberia continues its pursuit of justice and accountability for war crimes and corruption, the OWECC-L urges all stakeholders to unite in pushing for a fair and just legal framework that serves the interests of all Liberians.
The message is clear: advocacy for justice, accountability, and human rights violations must remain a regional priority as West African nations strive to secure peace and stability within their borders.