Rev. Barclay Presses Gregory Coleman’s Recusal-Seeks independent cocaine investigation safeguards

MONROVIA – Diaspora Liberian James D. Barclay’s renewed demand for Gregory O. W. Coleman’s recusal places institutional credibility at the center of Liberia’s cocaine investigation. His argument does not allege guilt; it questions whether public confidence can survive any perception of conflict or official interference. That distinction matters in a politically sensitive narcotics case with possible international implications. Barclay’s engagement with United States officials also signals an effort to move scrutiny beyond Liberia’s domestic institutions. The Liberian government now faces two connected tests. It must protect the investigation from improper influence while protecting every individual from unsupported assumptions of wrongdoing. Transparency, due process and credible independence will determine whether the eventual findings command lasting trust at home and abroad. THE ANALYST reports.

MONROVIA: United States-based Liberian statesman and Pleasantville City Council member Hon. James D. Barclay has intensified his call for Liberia’s Inspector General of Police, Colonel Gregory O. W. Coleman, to recuse himself from the ongoing investigation into the reported seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$3.17 million. Barclay, who has been vocal on matters of national security, the rule of law and Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs, urged the Government of Liberia to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently, transparently and in a manner capable of commanding public confidence.

According to Barclay, Coleman’s decision to recuse himself would send a strong signal that the Liberian government is committed to combating illicit drugs, money laundering and other forms of transnational organized crime. He argued that the reported cocaine case, given its financial value and potential international implications, requires an investigation free from any perception of conflict of interest, undue influence or interference.

“Recusal would demonstrate that the Government of Liberia is serious about its fight against illicit drugs and other transnational crimes,” Barclay said. He emphasized that maintaining public confidence in the investigation is critical.

United States Engagement Begins

Barclay also disclosed that he has begun engaging United States political figures regarding the matter, including a meeting with United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew. He said that during his meeting with Van Drew, he requested assistance in connection with the ongoing investigation. Barclay further said he was surprised when the congressman appeared to have prior knowledge of information he was preparing to discuss concerning the case.

Barclay did not provide additional details about the information discussed or explain how Van Drew may have obtained such knowledge. He said his engagement with United States political figures is intended to draw greater international attention to the case and encourage the Liberian government to ensure that the investigation meets appropriate standards of transparency, accountability and due process.

Barclay said he intends to continue engaging relevant stakeholders in the United States. He said the engagements would keep Liberia’s international partners informed about developments surrounding the reported cocaine investigation.

Institutional Independence Demanded

Barclay maintained that Liberia’s efforts to combat illicit drugs cannot be effective if questions arise about the impartiality or independence of officials directly involved in investigating major narcotics cases. He called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration and the relevant security institutions to take all necessary steps to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.

The reported seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$3.17 million has generated significant public interest, with the case raising broader questions about Liberia’s efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, money laundering and other forms of transnational organized crime. Barclay said Liberia must demonstrate that its institutions are capable of investigating major criminal cases without fear or favor, regardless of the individuals, organizations or interests that may become involved.

He also encouraged Liberia’s international partners to continue supporting the country’s law-enforcement institutions while promoting greater transparency and accountability in investigations involving narcotics trafficking and other serious transnational crimes. Barclay maintained that such support should strengthen the credibility and independence of Liberia’s investigative institutions.

Recusal Does Not Imply Guilt

Barclay emphasized that his call for the inspector general’s recusal should not be interpreted as a determination of guilt or wrongdoing against any individual connected to the case. Rather, he said, his objective is to ensure that the investigation is conducted under circumstances that eliminate reasonable doubts about its credibility and independence.

As calls for greater transparency continue, attention is expected to remain focused on how the Liberian government and the leadership of the Liberia National Police respond to concerns surrounding the investigation. Barclay said the credibility of the process will ultimately depend on whether the investigation is seen by the Liberian public and international partners as impartial, transparent and capable of producing an outcome based on evidence and the rule of law.