The Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic
Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) has reaffirmed its commitment to leading the
establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and National Anti-Corruption
Court.
Dr Barbu’s statement was in reaction to October 22, 2026,
protest by citizens and civil society actors blockading entrances to the Office
in demand of progress report on the on the passage proposed legislation. They
said the process is unacceptably being delayed.
Dr. Barbu clarified that OWECC-L does not have the
constitutional authority to enact legislation but is mandated to facilitate and
support the process leading to the establishment of the proposed courts.
He said the Office has worked with the Executive,
Legislature, civil society organizations, victims and survivors, traditional
leaders, the media, and international partners to advance the process,
including supporting the development of the draft legislation.
Responding to concerns about President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s
commitment to the establishment of the courts, Dr. Barbu said President
Boakai’s commitment to the process remains unchanged. He emphasized, however,
that the passage of the legislation ultimately requires action by the
appropriate constitutional institutions, particularly the National Legislature.
Dr. Barbu further assured the Liberian people that OWECC-L
will continue to advocate, facilitate, provide technical support, conduct
public education, and engage relevant national and international stakeholders
within the limits of its mandate.
He also called for peaceful engagement and constructive
dialogue, stressing that Liberia needs a credible, independent, fair, and
effective accountability mechanism capable of addressing war and economic
crimes and advancing the aspirations of victims, survivors, and the Liberian
people.
“OWECC-L will continue to do everything within its mandate
to move that process forward,” Dr. Barbu said, reaffirming the Office’s
commitment to supporting the establishment of the proposed courts through a
lawful, transparent, and credible process.
