Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-07 02:26:00
The civil conflict in Liberia, which lasted for over a decade, resulted in the deaths of over 250,000 Liberians, displacement of millions, and the destruction of properties worth millions of dollars. Even though peace was restored to the war-torn West African country over 20 years ago, there is still division among Liberians regarding the establishment of a war and economic crimes court.
Some individuals who were involved in war and economic crimes during the civil conflict, as well as their supporters, are seeking immunity from prosecution. On the other hand, many Liberians are advocating for justice to ensure that such senseless mass killings and destruction do not occur in the future.
Certain former rebel leaders have transitioned into positions of national leadership and are attempting to hinder efforts towards accountability by spreading fear that establishing a war and economic crimes court would lead to instability in the country.
Recently, 40 Liberian lawmakers from the House of Representatives signed a resolution supporting the establishment of a war and economic crimes court. If this resolution is transformed into legislation and passed by both legislative chambers, it will support President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s initiative to establish such a court.
Following the signing of the resolution, US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth van Schaack expressed her government’s readiness to collaborate with all Liberians to make the war and economic crimes court a reality. She also commended President Boakai for his commitment to establishing the court.
During her visit to Monrovia, Ambassador Van Schaack engaged with a diverse group of government officials and civil society organizations that are dedicated to delivering justice in Liberia. The US Embassy in Monrovia praised the House of Representatives for passing the resolution and highlighted its support for accountability and justice for all Liberians.
The positive news of the resolution coincided with Ambassador Van Schaack’s successful visit to Monrovia, further emphasizing the US government’s commitment to supporting the establishment of a war and economic crimes court in Liberia. The embassy’s interactions with government officials and civil society groups underscored the importance of accountability and justice in the country’s journey towards reconciliation and peace.
Overall, the efforts to establish a war and economic crimes court in Liberia represent a significant step towards addressing the atrocities committed during the civil conflict and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. By promoting justice and accountability, Liberia can move towards a more stable and peaceful future for all its citizens.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
