Monrovia – The Coalition for Justice in Liberia (CJL) has applauded President Joseph Nyumah Boakai for his transformative leadership in advancing justice reform and addressing Liberia’s historical injustices. CJL lauded the president’s decisive action to rescind the controversial appointment of Counselor Jonathan Massaquoi and initiate a transparent, inclusive selection process that led to the appointment of Counselor Jallah Barbu as head of Liberia’s War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC).
In a statement, CJL praised President Boakai for listening to the cries of victims, human rights advocates, and civil society groups who have long called for accountability for war and economic crimes. “This monumental decision demonstrates President Boakai’s unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and national healing,” said Lovetta Tugbeh, Founder of CJL.
President Boakai’s decision followed the establishment of a diverse vetting committee that included representatives from the Liberian National Bar Association, civil society, and human rights experts. This transparent process culminated in the selection of Counselor Jallah Barbu, a distinguished legal scholar and former Chairperson of Liberia’s Law Reform Commission.
Counselor Barbu, a seasoned advocate for the rule of law and accountability, also served as Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia. His appointment is widely seen as a crucial step toward dismantling the culture of impunity that has hindered Liberia’s progress.
CJL noted that the establishment of the WECC aligns with recommendations from Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and fulfills the country’s obligations under international human rights frameworks, including the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
“Counselor Barbu’s appointment brings renewed hope to thousands of Liberians who have suffered without justice for decades,” Tugbeh added. “The court represents an opportunity to confront our past, hold perpetrators accountable, and pave the way for genuine reconciliation and healing.”
The CJL emphasized that while the WECC cannot erase the atrocities of the past, it offers a platform for justice and sets a precedent for Liberia’s commitment to the rule of law. The group urged the government, civil society, and international partners to provide the financial and technical support necessary to ensure the court’s effectiveness.
In addition to highlighting Counselor Barbu’s credentials, CJL called for the WECC to be staffed with professionals of unblemished integrity and expertise in international criminal law, human rights, and transitional justice. To further build public trust, CJL recommended a nationwide consultative dialogue to engage citizens across all counties and the diaspora, integrating TRC recommendations and fostering a sense of collective ownership over the court’s mandate.
President Boakai’s bold action comes as Liberia seeks to strengthen its justice system and confront the systemic failures that have allowed impunity to persist. The CJL remains steadfast in its support for this initiative, describing it as a transformative moment in Liberia’s journey toward accountability, peace, and unity.
As Counselor Barbu assumes leadership of the WECC, CJL reaffirmed its commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the court fulfills its mandate and contributes to a lasting legacy of justice for future generations.
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