MONROVIA – As a pioneer and stalwart supporter of Liberia’s peace process, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to this oldest West African nation. Having led the charge with ECOMOG, the regional force that braved the Liberian conflict at great human and material cost, ECOWAS continues to stand by Liberia in its pursuit of transitional justice. In another notable show of solidarity, ECOWAS has expressed deep satisfaction with the efforts of the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Courts (OEWECC) for Liberia, recognizing its pivotal role in advancing transitional justice and promoting sustainable peace across the nation. The Analyst reports.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep satisfaction with the efforts of the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Courts (OEWECC) for Liberia, recognizing its pivotal role in advancing transitional justice and promoting sustainable peace across the nation.
During a high-level meeting held in Monrovia, ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia, Her Excellency Madam Josephine Nkrumah, commended the leadership of Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, Executive Director of OEWECC, for the significant strides made toward establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court and the Anti-Corruption Courts in Liberia.
Ambassador Nkrumah highlighted OEWECC-Liberia’s achievements as a testament to Liberia’s commitment to accountability, reconciliation, and institutional reforms, emphasizing that establishing these courts is not only a national priority but also a regional imperative for peace and stability.
ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Liberia’s transitional justice process through technical assistance and regional cooperation.
To further strengthen its information dissemination, the ECOWAS Ambassador encouraged the Executive Director to utilize the ECOWAS Radio, which she believes will greatly help reach the Liberian people, promoting the Office’s participatory and inclusive policy.
Ambassador Nkrumah also interacted with interns at OEWECC, admonishing them to take advantage of the opportunity given to them, as their stay at the Office will prepare them for future transitional justice processes.
Dr. Barbu expressed gratitude for ECOWAS’s endorsement of ongoing work, stating that the recognition reinforces his Office’s resolve to deliver justice and restore public trust in Liberia’s institutions. “We are honored to have ECOWAS as a strategic partner in this journey,” the Executive Director said.
Dr. Barbu believes the collaboration between ECOWAS and his office is a significant step toward realizing long-awaited justice mechanisms in Liberia, as the establishment of these courts will serve as a cornerstone for truth, accountability, and national unity.