-Under Dr. Jallah A. Barbu’s Leadership
By Taisiah Merfee
Liberia’s War and Economic Crimes Court moves closer to reality as draft laws near completion and regional offices expand under Executive Director Dr. Chr. Jallah A. Barbu.
Over the weekend, reporters visited Bong County, where they observed the newly furnished office and enthusiastic staff members actively working to advance the mission of this critical institution
The team also stopped in Margibi County, where they discovered another regional office serving Montserrado, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties. Additionally, plans are underway to complete the office in River Gee County to enhance the operational efficiency of the organization.
During their time in Bong County, our reporter witnessed a technical working group comprised of lawyers, human rights advocates, rural women’s networks, and researchers diligently reviewing the necessary documents for the formation of the Anti-Corruption Court. The Team completed the draft for the War Crimes Court.
The team of experts and staff members from the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia (OWECC-L) has been in Bong County for over a week, focused on completing these documents.
Clir. Frederick L.M. Gbenie, the Director for Operations at the office, shared his insights during an exclusive interview with our reporter.
He expressed the urgency of their work, stating, “We have been here since Tuesday and immediately commenced our work to finalize the draft instruments that will establish both the War Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court.
Our aim is to leave this place with a draft ready for implementation.” He added that their work will conclude by Sunday, as scheduled.
Clir. Gbemie emphasized the importance of creating awareness among the citizens regarding the workings of the court. “We are here to also engage with the community, especially the youth and Chiefs, to explain the court’s purpose and its significance for national governance.”
Among the interns working at the office is Miss Charline G. Mulbah, who highlighted the office’s commitment to serving the counties of Bong, Lofa, and Nimba.
“We have been in the community for some time, addressing issues such as the effects of corruption that hamper access to electricity, water, and security.
We aim to help those who may not have the opportunity to travel to Monrovia by fighting corruption,” she stated. “Our goal is to support the government’s success through the leadership of Cllr. Barbu.”
Ralph Flanjay, a security staff member, reassured the community of their safety, saying, “We are here to provide security for the facility and our team.
Since our arrival in Bong County, we have been warmly welcomed by the local residents.” He added, “This work is something we are committed to doing.”
Additionally, while in Gbarnga City, investigators discovered that Cilr. Barbu has been actively engaging with local intellectual remarked,
“We have seen Cllr. Barbu in various communities sharing the work of the court with us. It is time the national government provides financial support to ensure the court becomes fully operational.” Similar sentiments were made by residents in Kakata, Margibi County.
The investigation in Bong County underscores the ongoing efforts to establish justice mechanisms in Liberia amid prevailing issues of corruption and economic crimes.
The initiative promises to foster transparency and accountability, crucial for the nation’s recovery and growth. What is now becoming certain is that the draft laws will be submitted to the President before the end of the year.
