MONROVIA – The United States chapter of Liberia’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC–USA) has welcomed the not guilty verdict for former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah, declaring that the outcome affirms both his personal innocence and growing public fears that the Boakai administration is weaponizing state institutions against political opponents.
In a statement issued Saturday, the group described the jury’s decision as “a powerful affirmation of truth, justice, due process, and the independence of the rule of law in Liberia.” But the reaction went far beyond a simple acceptance of the court’s ruling. CDC–USA argued that Mr. Tweah’s prosecution was never primarily about corruption, but rather part of a “broader political effort to weaken and discredit some of the intellectual and policy strengths associated with the CDC.”
“Many Liberians viewed the prosecution of Mr. Tweah not simply as a corruption case, but as part of a broader political effort,” the statement read. “The verdict delivered by jurors of integrity sends a clear message that justice must rise above propaganda, vendetta, and partisan pressure.” The group also used the acquittal to sharpen its criticism of the government’s handling of the ongoing Capitol Building arson investigation, which has involved several CDC lawmakers and officials. According to CDC–USA, the government has yet to present “compelling evidence capable of securing convictions” despite the prolonged nature of the case.
Meanwhile, the group alleged that restrictions and legal uncertainty continue to affect the freedom of movement of those accused, preventing them from attending party responsibilities, international engagements, and family obligations. “From the prism of many Liberians, these actions increasingly appear less about justice and more about sustaining political pressure against opposition figures,” the statement said. “Such a path risks deepening political division at a time when Liberia requires reconciliation, stability, and national focus on governance and economic recovery.”
The organization issued a direct appeal to President Boakai’s administration: end what many perceive as a continuing political witch-hunt against CDC officials and supporters. “The weaponization of state institutions against political opponents undermines democracy, weakens public confidence, and distracts from the pressing national challenges confronting the Liberian people,” CDC–USA warned.
The group urged all Liberians to continue supporting “justice grounded in evidence, fairness, and institutional integrity, not politics,” while reaffirming its own commitment to peace, democracy, the rule of law, and constructive national engagement. Mr. Tweah, who served as Finance Minister under former President George Weah, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. His acquittal is expected to further inflame political tensions between the governing Unity Party and the opposition CDC, which has repeatedly claimed it is being targeted since leaving office.
