Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-14 02:59:00
Liberia appears to be at a crossroads, where a small group of individuals who caused mass terror and destruction during the civil war now believe they can continue to hold the country hostage and evade accountability for their actions. These individuals, many of whom were warlords and some are now in positions of power, are threatening to return to violence if a war and economic crimes court is established to prosecute them.
They seem to think they are above the law, refusing to acknowledge the suffering they inflicted on innocent civilians and insisting on maintaining their power and control. However, it is time for these rebel leaders to realize that justice will not elude them forever, as the international community is calling for them to answer for the atrocities they committed.
The likes of disbanded INPFL and MODEL rebel leaders, such as Senators Prince Yormie Johnson and Thomas Yaya Nimely, are vehemently opposing the establishment of a war crimes court out of fear of facing the consequences of their past actions. It is clear that these individuals are afraid of being held accountable for the crimes listed in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has shown leadership by supporting the establishment of a war and economic crimes court, despite facing threats from those who are desperate to avoid justice. It is essential for a good leader to stand up for justice and accountability, even in the face of resistance from those who fear being held accountable for their crimes.
The victims of the civil war in Liberia, whose voices have been silenced through violence and terror, deserve justice and closure. The cries of those who were brutally murdered in various counties across Liberia continue to echo, demanding that those responsible be held accountable for their actions.
While the perpetrators may try to intimidate and threaten, they do not represent the majority of the population who seek justice and closure. The international community stands resolutely behind the calls for accountability in Liberia, determined to put an end to impunity and ensure that those responsible for mass atrocities face the consequences of their actions.
It is time for the rebel leaders and warlords to understand that their days of evading justice are numbered. The establishment of a war and economic crimes court is a necessary step towards healing and reconciliation in Liberia, providing closure for the victims and ensuring that those who committed heinous crimes are held accountable for their actions. Justice must prevail, and impunity must come to an end in Liberia.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
