Liberian Prosecutors Struggle as Justice Ministry Fails to Fund Operations

Published: June 23, 2024

MONROVIA – Despite President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s inaugural address stating that there will be “no business as usual,” it appears that state prosecutors are still operating under the old norms. They are using their limited salaries to perform the duties of the Ministry of Justice, which is hindering the effectiveness of the ministry.

By Garmah Lomo, Contributor

According to information gathered by this news outlet, state prosecutors are currently handling cases on a basis where prosecutors are asked to carry out their duties and functions using their own resources so that they will be reimbursed at a later date.

Several prosecutors reported that since August 2023, including the court terms in November 2023 and up to May 2024, they have not received any prosecution funds from the Justice Ministry. Instead, they were instructed by ministry authorities to waive the expenses they have incurred for prosecuting cases during these three terms.

Further reports indicate that prosecutors are also responsible for purchasing their own stationery and other office necessities, including scratch cards, with their own money. One prosecutor mentioned that indictments, which are supposed to be confidential until released, are being printed at commercial printing centers in some counties due to the lack of office equipment like laptops and printers.

Additionally, even when office equipment is available, there is often no electricity in the courts due to a lack of fuel for the generators. This situation places financial burden on prosecutors, who have to use their modest salaries to fund government prosecutorial work. They also have to cover the costs of transporting inmates to and from court every day during trials.

Prosecutors are urging the Liberian government, through the Justice Ministry, to end this practice of “business as usual” and address these pressing issues.

Solicitor General Augustine Fayiah, in a recent face-to-face interaction, acknowledged the challenges and stated that efforts are being made to address some of the urgent needs of the prosecutors.