LIBERIA is finally taking steps to address the brutal legacy of its civil wars, with war crimes trials expected to begin during the administration of President Joseph Boakai. After years of delay, the long-awaited War and Economic Crimes Court is on track to hold its first trial within the next six years, according to Jallah Barbu, the lawyer responsible for overseeing the court’s establishment.
Justice long overdue for civil war victims
Liberia’s civil wars, which raged from 1989 to 2003, resulted in the deaths of around 250,000 people and left deep scars on the nation. The violence included massacres, mutilation, rape, and even cannibalism, yet no one has been tried for these horrific crimes, despite decades of domestic and international pressure.
Barbu, who was appointed by Boakai in November to manage the court’s formation, expressed hope that the trials would soon bring justice to the victims. ‘I do not think it is too late,’ Barbu said, underscoring the critical opportunity to address the nation’s painful past and move forward.
The court’s path forward
Barbu emphasised that the court would likely begin its first trial before the end of President Boakai’s six-year term. ‘Based on the momentum I see, the court will have, long before the expiration of the six years, at least commenced its first trial, if not concluded it,’ he said.
In May, Boakai signed a decree establishing an office to oversee the creation of the court, which will address crimes committed during the civil wars. These crimes include war crimes, crimes against humanity, and economic crimes, marking a major step toward accountability in Liberia’s troubled history.
A history of unmet promises
Despite being recommended by the 2009 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which concluded that all sides in the conflict were responsible for war crimes, the creation of the court had been delayed for years. The TRC’s recommendations were largely ignored, with the political influence of accused warlords, some of whom were still powerful figures in Liberia, complicating efforts for justice.
One such figure was Prince Johnson, a notorious militia leader responsible for the brutal killing of former president Samuel Doe. Johnson, who served as a senator until his death in late November 2024, opposed the court’s creation. He was among eight warlords recommended by the TRC to stand trial.
Hybrid court for justice
Barbu emphasised that the new court would be a hybrid one, combining both international and local laws. This approach is intended to ensure that the court respects Liberia’s legal system while incorporating international standards of justice.
‘The Liberian people will be happy when we bring closure to this process,’ Barbu said. ‘Our country will be on a better trajectory, at least in terms of ensuring that respect for the rule of law is not just on the tongue, but it’s in our conduct.’
The government has given strong assurances of support for the court, and international partners have also pledged assistance. While no trials have taken place within Liberia, several war criminals have been convicted abroad, but many feel that justice for Liberia’s own citizens must take place within the country.
The creation of this court marks a pivotal moment in Liberia’s quest for justice, accountability, and healing after decades of conflict. With President Boakai’s commitment and the support of both domestic and international communities, the hope is that the court will finally deliver justice to the victims of the nation’s devastating civil wars.
