MONROVIA – In a powerful push toward ending decades of impunity, four of Liberia’s leading civil society organizations have jointly declared their unwavering support for the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court alongside a specialized National Anti-Corruption Court.
By Francis G. Boayue
The groups—the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) and Sister Aid Liberia—issued a joint statement on Wednesday, June 10, calling on the National Legislature to act decisively on two crucial bills recently submitted by the Executive.
CENTAL Executive Director Anderson Miamen, reading the joint press statement on behalf of the CSOs, described the current momentum as a “decisive moment” in Liberia’s long and difficult march toward justice, accountability and institutional renewal.
Miamen noted that the statement comes on the eve of a High-Level Dedicated Technical Working Session scheduled for Thursday, June 11, to Friday, June 12.
The session is specifically designed for the Designated Committee of the House of Representatives to review the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) and National Anti-Corruption Court bills.
“This session is not a ceremonial gathering; it is a national obligation at a time when Liberia is finally taking concrete steps to confront impunity, ensure accountability, and strengthen the rule of law,” the groups stated.
The technical session aims to provide lawmakers with the legal, institutional, and operational clarity needed to make informed decisions.
According to the CSOs, the engagement will offer expert analysis and constructive dialogue to ensure the Legislature can match the Executive’s resolve.
The civil society coalition highly commended recent executive actions, including the President’s formal submission of both bills to the National Legislature and the funded mandate extension for the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC-L).
They noted that these actions reflect a growing national consensus that Liberia can no longer postpone justice for the victims and survivors of its brutal civil conflict, who have waited more than 20 years for closure.
The groups also showered praise on lawmakers who have already committed to attending the upcoming two-day technical session.
“Their readiness to engage reflects courage, foresight, and a deep respect for the Liberian people,” the statement read.
“By choosing to participate, these lawmakers are showing that they stand on the right side of history, aligned with victims, survivors, and citizens who demand justice and accountability.”
While praising those already on board, the coalition explicitly urged invited lawmakers who remain hesitant or have not fully endorsed the accountability mechanisms to change course.
“We urge them to attend the session without excuses, engage constructively, and prioritize national interest over political comfort,” the CSOs asserted.
“While the President has proactively acted by submitting the bills and extending OWECC’s mandate, it is now the Legislature’s turn to act with equal resolve and integrity to timely enact both instruments.”
Reaffirming their role as watchdogs, the four organizations pledged to continuously support the Legislature with technical expertise, independent monitoring, and public engagement to ensure transparency throughout the process.
They emphasized that the proposed courts must be credible, inclusive, and efficient institutions that truly reflect the aspirations of the Liberian people.
The joint statement, signed by Anderson D. Miamen (Executive Director, CENTAL), Miatta Darwolor (Executive Director, Sisters AID Liberia Inc.), Esther Davies-Yango (Executive Director, WONGOSOL), and Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley (Vice President, AFELL), concluded with a historic reminder: “Liberia has waited long enough. Justice and accountability delayed must no longer be justice and accountability denied.”
