Published: January 30, 2026
MONROVIA, Liberia — Lawyers for several defendants charged in connection with a June 27, 2024 incident at the Salala Rubber Corporation plantation in Weala, Margibi County, have filed a motion before the First Judicial Circuit Criminal Court “A” seeking dismissal of the case on constitutional grounds.
In the filing, the defense argues that the prosecution has violated the defendants’ right to a speedy trial, as guaranteed under Article 21(f) of the Liberian Constitution and Section 18.2 of the Criminal Procedure Law.
The defendants, whom counsel describes as community advocates and human rights defenders, were arrested following allegations of property damage and threats against SRC personnel — charges they deny. A writ of arrest was issued by the Baypolu Magisterial Court on July 5, 2024, and the Margibi County Grand Jury returned indictments on March 5, 2025. The case was subsequently transferred to Criminal Court “A” in Monrovia, presided over by Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie.
Defense lawyers contend that more than two terms of court have elapsed since the indictments were returned, yet no trial has commenced. They argue that the delay reflects a lack of prosecutorial diligence and that maintaining the indictment under these circumstances constitutes an abuse of process.
Although the defendants are out on bail, the motion notes that they are required to report regularly to Monrovia, imposing financial burdens and disrupting their livelihoods.
Judicial officials said the court has not yet assigned a hearing date for the motion but indicated that an assignment is expected within the coming week.
Related land dispute
Separate from the criminal proceedings, the defendants are also involved in an ongoing land dispute with SRC. Community members claim customary ownership of land within the company’s concession area and have indicated plans to pursue declaratory judgment proceedings.
According to the defense, a reconnaissance survey initiated through the Liberia Land Authority was halted on the instruction of the Margibi County Attorney, though no written order has been produced. Defense counsel, led by Cllr. Adolphus Kanwa, has advised that the Ministry of Justice assign a representative to participate in the survey to assess the land area and clarify its legal status.
Legal observers note that disputes between concessionaires and host communities remain common in Liberia, often involving complex issues of customary land rights, environmental protection and community participation.
The court’s ruling on the motion to dismiss is expected to determine whether the criminal case proceeds or is terminated.
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