(Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, June 11, 2024): The
Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia
(OWECC-L), in collaboration with national and international partners, will
convene a two-day technical deliberation session with members of the Liberian
Legislature from June 11 to 13, 2026.
The engagement will focus on the two draft
laws currently before the Legislature for passage. and is intended to accelerate
the legislative process by equipping lawmakers with technical insights and
clarifications on the bills.
During the sessions, frequently asked
questions on the WECC and NACC will be addressed to ensure legislators
have the necessary information to make informed decisions that reflect the best
interests of the Liberian people.
The Buchanan deliberation represents a
critical step in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen justice,
accountability, and governance. By convening legislators outside of Monrovia in
a dedicated technical session, OWECC-L and its partners are creating space for
focused dialogue, free from the distractions of daily legislative business.
The two draft laws under review, the War
and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court, are landmark proposals that seek to address Liberia’s legacy of impunity and
systemic corruption. Their passage would mark a turning point in the nation’s
pursuit of justice and good governance.
Key
Features of the Two Draft Laws
- War
and Economic Crimes Court (WECC): Designed to prosecute individuals
responsible for war crimes and economic crimes committed during Liberia’s
civil conflicts. The court would implement recommendations of the Truth
and Reconciliation Commission, providing justice for victims and ensuring
accountability for atrocities.
- National
Anti-Corruption Court (NACC): A specialized judicial body to handle
corruption cases, ensuring swift and impartial adjudication. The court
would strengthen Liberia’s anti-corruption framework, targeting misuse of
public funds and reinforcing transparency in governance.
This two-day session is not only a technical
review event but also a confidence-building
exercise between civil society and policymakers. By addressing frequently
asked questions and clarifying complex legal provisions, OWECC-L and its
partners aim to remove barriers that often slow legislative processes.
The engagement also underscores the importance
of inclusive dialogue. Civil society organizations, survivors’ groups,
and international partners have long advocated for these laws. Bringing
legislators into direct conversation with technical experts ensures that
diverse perspectives are considered in shaping Liberia’s future.
Through strategic partnerships and advocacy,
OWECC-L continues to promote policies that advance social justice, equality,
and the fight to end impunity. The Buchanan engagement is part of a broader
mission to:
- Strengthen
Liberia’s justice system
- Promote
accountability and transparency
- Support
national healing and reconciliation
- Build
trust between citizens and their government
International and national partners have
expressed strong support for the initiative, noting that Liberia’s progress
toward justice and accountability will serve as a model for post-conflict
societies worldwide. Civil society leaders emphasize that the passage of these
laws is essential for restoring public confidence in governance and ensuring
that future generations inherit a nation built on fairness and rule of law.
About
OWECC-L
The Office for the Establishment of War and
Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) is dedicated to advancing justice,
accountability, and inclusive governance. Working with both national and
international partners, OWECC-L advocates for policies that strengthen the rule
of law and promote sustainable peace.
