-Clears Way for Corruption Trial
By Vaye A. Lepolu
Monrovia – The path is now clear for the trial of former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah and four co-defendants to proceed, following a definitive ruling from the Supreme Court of Liberia. On Tuesday, February 24, Criminal Court “C” at the Temple of Justice formally reassumed jurisdiction over the case after a mandate from the nation’s highest court was read in open session, removing a significant legal obstacle.
The high-profile case centers on serious allegations regarding the mismanagement and irregular disbursement of public funds that were reportedly allocated for national security purposes during the final years of the previous administration. Prosecutors from the state assert that the defendants authorized financial transactions that violated Liberia’s public financial management laws, raising critical questions about accountability and transparency in the use of state resources.
The legal proceedings had been stalled after defense lawyers filed a challenge arguing that the case was unconstitutional. They contended that the funds in question were tied to national security and, therefore, exempt from criminal review. Furthermore, they maintained that officials acting under the authority of the executive branch should be immune from prosecution for actions taken in their official capacities.
These arguments led to an appeal before the Supreme Court, which was tasked with determining the extent of presidential immunity and whether it could be extended to cabinet ministers and other appointed officials.
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court drew a firm constitutional distinction. The Court affirmed that while a sitting president is immune from prosecution for official acts, this protection does not extend to ministers or other public officials. The opinion underscored that all public servants, whether in office or not, remain individually accountable for their actions under the law.
This decisive ruling dismantled the defense’s immunity claim and restored full jurisdiction to Criminal Court “C,” effectively giving the green light for the trial to move forward.
The case emerged from widespread public concern over alleged off-budget spending and irregular withdrawals from government accounts during the latter years of the previous administration. Following investigations by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission in collaboration with state prosecutors, Tweah and his co-defendants were formally indicted.
Since the charges were filed, the proceedings have drawn intense public and political attention. For anti-corruption advocates, the case represents a pivotal test of Liberia’s commitment to good governance and the rule of law. Conversely, supporters of the defendants continue to characterize the prosecution as politically motivated.
