Monrovia – The Coalition for Justice in Liberia has officially joined the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC), a significant partnership that is expected to bolster ongoing efforts to seek justice in Liberia. The coalition’s focus will be on addressing critical issues such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity within the country.
In a joint statement issued on August 7, 2024, the Coalition for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court, along with its partners, underscored the importance of local ownership in the appointment process for the office responsible for war and economic crimes in Liberia. The coalition emphasized the need for broad consultation, urging the inclusion of civil society organizations, the Bar Association, and communities of victims and survivors in the decision-making process.
“These groups represent the voices of the people,” the coalition stated, stressing that their involvement is essential to ensure that the appointed officer is adequately equipped to meet the specific needs and concerns of the Liberian populace.
While the ultimate decision regarding the appointment rests with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, the coalition and its partners argue that thorough consultation with these stakeholders is not only a matter of promoting local ownership of the transitional justice process but also crucial to maintaining a Liberian-led approach. The coalition believes that this inclusive method would enhance the legitimacy of the appointment while fostering a transparent and participatory process.
The coalition’s latest statement also reflects previous concerns expressed to President Boakai regarding the appointment of Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi as the head of the Office for War and Economic Crimes Courts for Liberia. The coalition has raised objections to Massaquoi’s appointment, citing his previous role as a lawyer for individuals like Agnes Reeves Taylor and Gibril Massaquoi, both alleged former warlords. The coalition fears that his past affiliations could severely undermine public trust in the office, potentially jeopardizing the security and stability of Liberia as it seeks to address past war crimes.
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