IN a significant step towards addressing historical injustices, Liberian President Joseph Boakai signed an executive order on Thursday to establish a war crimes court, aiming to deliver long-overdue justice to victims of serious abuses perpetrated during the country’s two civil wars.
The conflicts, spanning from 1989 to 2003, were marked by widespread atrocities, including massacres, rape, and the forced recruitment of child soldiers. Despite calls for accountability, no concrete action was taken until President Boakai assumed office last year.
The establishment of the war crimes court follows recommendations from a Truth and Reconciliation Committee, which highlighted the need for a specialised tribunal to prosecute those allegedly responsible for the heinous crimes committed during the conflicts.
Expressing gratitude to the legislators for their support, President Boakai emphasised the importance of justice and healing in fostering lasting peace. In a special address, he stated, ‘The conviction that brings us here today is that, for peace and harmony to have a chance to prevail, justice and healing must perfect the groundwork.’
The decision has been widely welcomed by activists and civil society groups advocating for accountability and redress for the victims of Liberia’s civil wars. The conflicts claimed the lives of approximately 250,000 people, leaving deep scars on the nation’s collective memory.
Once operational, the war crimes court will operate within Liberia, adhering to international standards, and will receive support from international institutions, including the United Nations. In addition to addressing atrocities, the court will also handle cases related to economic crimes.
However, the move has sparked opposition from some quarters within Liberia, who argue that it risks reopening old wounds and could potentially undermine an existing amnesty law that played a role in ending the fighting. Concerns have been raised about the delicate balance between pursuing justice and preserving fragile peace in the aftermath of conflict.
As Liberia embarks on this significant endeavour to confront its past and seek accountability for past wrongs, the establishment of the war crimes court represents a critical step towards achieving reconciliation and healing for the nation.
