Buchanan, Grand Bassa County – June 2026 – More than forty members of the House of Representatives have expressed strong optimism for the swift passage of the draft laws seeking to establish the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) and the National Anti-Corruption Court (NACC) following a two-day High-Level Technical Deliberation held in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
The landmark engagement, which brought together lawmakers, transitional justice actors, legal experts, civil society representatives, and development partners, was aimed at deepening legislators' understanding of the legal, constitutional, and operational frameworks of the two proposed institutions that are expected to play a critical role in Liberia's pursuit of justice, accountability, and national reconciliation.
The deliberations were graced by the presence of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, and the Senate Pro Tempore, Hon. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, whose participation underscored the significance of the legislative process surrounding the two draft bills currently before the National Legislature.
At the close of the event, participating lawmakers described the engagement as highly informative and timely, noting that it provided them with valuable insights into the technical aspects of the proposed legislation.
Several legislators acknowledged that the discussions helped clarify concerns and misconceptions surrounding the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court. They emphasized that the technical sessions equipped them with the knowledge necessary to engage in informed debate when the bills are formally considered on the floors of both chambers.
"We have had the opportunity to hear directly from legal experts, transitional justice practitioners, and stakeholders who have worked extensively on these issues. This engagement has provided us with a clearer understanding of the intent, scope, and importance of these bills," one participating lawmaker remarked.
The legislators further indicated that the deliberations strengthened their appreciation of the role the two institutions could play in addressing longstanding demands for accountability, combating impunity, promoting good governance, and restoring public confidence in the justice system.
Participants highlighted that the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court would address grave crimes committed during Liberia's civil conflicts, while the National Anti-Corruption Court would strengthen the country's fight against corruption by providing a specialized judicial mechanism to adjudicate corruption-related offenses.
The lawmakers expressed confidence that the knowledge gained from the technical deliberations would contribute significantly to constructive legislative debates and informed decision-making regarding the two bills.
Stakeholders attending the event welcomed the lawmakers' positive response and reiterated the importance of sustained engagement between policymakers, civil society organizations, and justice sector actors as Liberia advances efforts to implement key recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and strengthen anti-corruption measures.
The High-Level Technical Deliberation forms part of ongoing national efforts to build consensus and increase public and legislative understanding of transitional justice mechanisms and accountability frameworks designed to address Liberia's historical challenges while promoting lasting peace and democratic governance.
Observers described the Buchanan gathering as a major step forward in fostering collaboration between the Legislature and transitional justice stakeholders and creating a shared understanding of the legal and institutional requirements necessary for the successful establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court.
As the bills proceed through the legislative process, participants expressed hope that the momentum generated by the Buchanan deliberations will contribute to their timely consideration and eventual passage.
