MONROVIA: Amid concerns about the source of support for the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) when established, a top United States government official has assured Liberians that the “US Government is ready to work with the Liberian people in this endeavor.”
In a podcast shared online which was viewed by The Analyst, Madam Beth Van Schaack, US Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice, commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for signing the executive order aimed at hastening the establishment of the office for WECC and “for his moving and inspiring remarks at the signing ceremony.”
She made US government’s position known on ending impunity in the country, stating that it takes the center stage of national concern.
She stressed that a lot of Liberians who suffered the effects of the brutal civil war cannot get justice because over the years impunity has remained unchecked in the country.
“Liberians have lived with the shadow of impunity and several war crimes for more than 20 years. This impunity continues to impact lives for all Liberians especially for those who directly suffered during the civil war and are yet to see justice,” Ambassador Schaack said.
“But now I am confident that the wait for justice will soon be over. On my two trips to Liberia, I was inspired by the tireless efforts of the Liberian people to advocate for justice,” she said. “In addition to congratulating the President and his team at the Executive Mansion, I want to applaud those who worked for years to keep the dream of justice alive, including my friends in the civil society, members of the Liberian public, the bar, survivors and members of the legislature.”
She renewed hopes that the WECC was becoming a reality when she said her office, the US Embassy in Liberia and other partners within the United States government, were ready to work with Liberians to ensure the WECC comes to pass.
“Our history is intertwined, so we look forward to making you partners to take this great next step and we welcome others within the diplomatic community in Monrovia to join us in this endeavor,” she said.
The US diplomat said she was excited that Liberians themselves have been leading efforts to establish the WECC so far. She challenged Liberians not to relent until their objectives are achieved.
She also assured Liberians that “the future of the country will be brighter and prosperous only when you properly acknowledged the past. This takes courage. It will not be easy, but it is essential to building a society where rule of law will flourish”.
Ambassador Schaack, who was in the country when the House of Representatives signed the resolution calling for the establishment of WECC early this year, said she is hopeful that survivors of the worst human kind will be treated with dignity in the future.
“Once again, my congratulations to all those who worked for this significant achievement and applaud your bravery and honesty. Echoing President Boakai in his signing speech, I urge you to be firm and stand against injustice and impunity. I hope to be back in Liberia soon to celebrate with you.”
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