– Takes Engagement Dialogue to Several Communities
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
MONROVIA – The Ministry of Justice, has launched a nationwide campaign to combat mob violence and strengthen public trust in the rule of law. The initiative was introduced during a community dialogue held in New Kru Town, bringing together residents, civil society representatives, law enforcement officials, and youth advocates to address the growing concern of extrajudicial violence—often referred to as “jungle justice.”
Cllr. Cora Hare Konuwa, Deputy Minister for Administration and Public Safety and Acting Minister of Justice, delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Attorney General. She emphasized that mob justice not only violates fundamental human rights but also destabilizes communities and deters investment.
“Mob justice undermines the rule of law, violates human rights, and discourages investment and development in Liberia,” Konuwa stated. “The protection of lives and property—for both Liberians and foreign residents—is a constitutional duty of the government.”
Although Minister of Justice and Attorney General Frank Musah Dean was unable to attend, Konuwa relayed his personal commitment to the cause. Having grown up in New Kru Town, the Minister expressed deep concern over the trend and urged collective action: “We cannot continue to look the other way because our friends and families are not directly affected. If mob justice persists, we will all become victims.”
Panelists from civil society, youth groups, and the Liberia National Police identified key drivers of mob violence, including poverty, weak public trust in the judicial system, prolonged court delays, and the rapid spread of misinformation through social media. They warned that such acts create a cycle of lawlessness, further eroding confidence in legal institutions and endangering community safety.
Ambassador George Kingsley, National Chairperson of the Civil Society Council of Liberia, underscored the severity of the issue: “Those who engage in mob justice bypass the legal system, act as judge and executioner, and often cause serious harm or death without due process. This is a grave violation of human rights.”
In response, the campaign will focus on strengthening community-police relations, expanding legal literacy programs across all 15 counties, and advocating for judicial reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency within the justice system.
Mr. Robert Teah, Community Governor of New Kru Town, welcomed the initiative and pledged his full support. He noted that mob violence has long disrupted peace and development in the area and deterred much-needed investment.
“I am pleased that during my administration, we are hosting this vital initiative to educate our citizens on the dangers of mob violence,” Teah said. “We will work in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice to enforce these educational efforts and reduce the crime rate in our community.” The event concluded with a unified call to action, urging all Liberians to reject vigilante justice and uphold the principles of fairness, due process, and the rule of law.
