-In Tweah, Others Corruption Case
By Vaye Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia – The high-profile corruption trial of former government officials took a critical turn Monday as the Court granted a continuance to allow the Prosecution to subpoena two key financial witnesses—a Central Bank official and a Finance Ministry official—whose testimonies are expected to clarify the alleged illegal transfer of public funds.
The case, brought by the Republic of Liberia through the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), involves serious allegations including economic sabotage, theft of public funds, money laundering, and criminal conspiracy against several former senior officials.
During proceedings, the Prosecution informed the Court that it required additional time to secure the presence of two essential witnesses—Mr. Theophilus Larmie of the Central Bank of Liberia and Madam Tanneh G. Brunson of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning—whose testimonies are expected to clarify crucial financial transactions central to the case.
The Prosecution explained that the extended cross-examination of its initial witness, which lasted approximately three weeks, made it difficult to predict when the Defense would conclude. As such, arrangements to secure the additional witnesses could not be finalized in advance. Emphasizing its duty to the Court, the Prosecution maintained that its application was made in good faith and not intended to delay proceedings, but rather to ensure that all relevant facts are properly presented for the jury’s consideration.
“The interest of justice requires that the Court and jury have a complete understanding of the evidence,” the Prosecution argued, noting that the testimonies of the subpoenaed witnesses are directly tied to the financial dealings under investigation. The Court, while acknowledging that the procurement of witnesses is generally not sufficient grounds for a continuance, nonetheless granted the request.
The matter was adjourned to Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., with orders for subpoenas to be issued compelling the appearance of the two witnesses.
Meanwhile, the Prosecution concluded its redirect examination of its first witness, reinforcing its position that the funds in question were unlawfully transferred outside the established budgetary process and without proper authorization.
According to the Prosecution, evidence presented thus far shows that the transactions were conducted in violation of financial regulations and constituted illegal disbursement of public funds under the guise of supporting national security operations.
The Court also sustained an objection raised by the Prosecution during cross-examination, reaffirming procedural safeguards and ensuring that questioning remained within the bounds of the law.
