Africa-Press – Liberia. Criminal Court “C” Resident Judge Osman F. Feika has dismissed a longstanding indictment against former National Investment Commission (NIC) Executive Director George G. Wisner II, bringing an end to a legal battle that began nearly six years ago.
The ruling clears Wisner of charges including Economic Sabotage, Theft of Property, and Criminal Conspiracy, and orders the immediate restoration of his rights and privileges as a free citizen of Liberia.
The indictment, filed in 2020 by the Ministry of Justice during the administration of former President George M. Weah, accused Wisner of wrongdoing linked to the issuance of an
Investment Incentive Certificate to MHM EKO. Authorities alleged that the certificate, which granted duty-free privileges, was later abused by one of the company’s agents, resulting in financial losses to the Government of Liberia estimated at USD 8,592.39.
Court documents indicate that the case originated from a broader USD 7.6 million fraud dispute involving MHM EKO’s corporate partners. The dispute centered on allegations of concealed facts and financial misconduct related to the incentive award, further entangling the former NIC boss in a complex legal controversy.
Wisner’s legal team strongly contested the charges, describing the indictment as false, malicious, and politically motivated.
The defense argued that the NIC lacks statutory authority to grant tax waivers, asserting that such responsibilities fall under the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP). They further emphasized that the incentive certificate in question carried the signatures of then-Finance Minister Amara Konneh and Deputy Minister James F. Kollie.
Throughout the protracted proceedings, Wisner remained under significant legal restrictions, including a ne exeat republica order that barred him from leaving Liberia. The former NIC Executive Director has stated that the unresolved case cost him international employment opportunities and led to the collapse of his consultancy firm.
After reviewing arguments from both the prosecution and defense, Judge Feika ruled that the case be dismissed. The court concluded that the indictment could not be sustained, ordering Wisner’s full legal clearance and the restoration of his civil liberties.
Speaking following the ruling, Wisner characterized the case as a troubling example of what he described as the politicization of Liberia’s justice system. He cautioned against the alleged weaponization of the courts, warning that judicial institutions must remain independent and guided by the rule of law.
Despite the years of legal uncertainty, Wisner adopted a reconciliatory tone, expressing gratitude to God, his family, and supporters. He also commended his legal counsel, led by Attorney Kollie A. Dorko and Mesurrado Law Partners Incorporated, for their resilience throughout the proceedings.
The dismissal is expected to reignite discussions on judicial independence, political prosecutions, and issues of governance accountability that continue to shape Liberia’s legal and political discourse.
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