By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Email: alphansokalama@gmail.com
Liberia’s President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has announced the formation of a new Search and Vetting Committee responsible for recruiting and vetting candidates for leadership positions in the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court. This initiative, as reported by the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICAT), is part of a broader effort to establish both a Special War Crimes Court and an Anti-Corruption Court in Liberia, in accordance with Executive Order #131.
The newly established committee will be chaired by the Ministry of Justice and will include representatives from various organizations, such as the National Civil Society Council of Liberia, ECOWAS, the United Nations Office in Liberia, the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, the Liberia National Bar Association, the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, and the African Union Mission to Liberia. This diverse representation aims to ensure transparency and public involvement in the selection process.
The committee’s primary task is to identify and recommend three candidates who exhibit high integrity, a comprehensive understanding of Liberian constitutional and criminal law, and the capability to work effectively with both the international community and the Liberian public.
The establishment of this committee marks a significant step in Liberia’s efforts to strengthen its judicial system and combat war and economic crimes, reflecting the administration’s commitment to reform and transparency.
The move comes amid speculation that the president’s decision is influenced by a desire to replace Jonathan Massaquoi, the current head of the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC). Critics and analysts suggest that Boakai’s actions are driven by dissatisfaction with Massaquoi, who has faced criticism from civil society organizations and human rights groups for perceived issues with his character. The potential removal of Cllr. Massaquoi has been a topic of concern for weeks, though the government has not confirmed any changes.
