Africa-Press – Liberia. The National Outreach Team established by the Government of Liberia (GoL) has successfully concluded its inaugural awareness tour in Nimba County, promoting the forthcoming establishment of the Anti-Corruption Court and the War and Economic Crime Court.
The team received overwhelming support from residents across the county during the eight-day campaign.
Launched on July 19, 2025, this nationwide outreach initiative aims to educate Liberians about two vital legal institutions designed to strengthen justice and accountability in the country.
These courts-a War and Economic Crime Court and an Anti-Corruption Court are key pillars in President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s Government Agenda to combat impunity and boost national development through the rule of law.
The outreach team, operating under the Office of War and Economic Crime Courts (OWECC), engaged communities through visits to towns, religious centers, schools and media platforms. Its members addressed congregations in churches and mosques in major cities including Tappita, Saclepea, Sanniquellie, and Ganta, delivering detailed information about the courts’ mandates and timelines.
The Chairperson of the outreach team, Counselor Asatu Bah Kenneth, expressed profound satisfaction with the warm reception from Nimbaians.
“We were initially concerned due to public speculation following the death of Senator Prince Yormie Johnson that these courts might never materialize,” she said. “But witnessing the enthusiasm, cooperation and genuine interest of the people has been truly inspiring.”
Counselor Kenneth highlighted the strategic division of the outreach team into three groups to maximize coverage and engagement.
She emphasized that the high level of professionalism maintained by the team during every encounter fostered trust and openness among the communities. No incidents of hostility or opposition were reported throughout their mission.
The team clarified that the War and Economic Crime Court will be officially established in November 2027. It will handle cases including those dating back to 1979 related to war crimes, economic sabotage and other serious offenses.
The Anti-Corruption Court, planned for launch a year earlier in November 2026, will specifically tackle corruption and financial crimes, aiming to bring perpetrators including high-ranking officials to justice.
Many Nimba residents expressed that prior to the outreach visit, they believed the courts were created solely to investigate the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, who passed away recently.
“The presence of the team here has convinced us that these courts are for everyone and not targeted at individuals,” said a local community leader in Ganta, stressing that, “We pledge our support for this initiative.”
Local stakeholders, including Madam Kebeh Monger, President of the Rural Women of Liberia, joined the campaign, underscoring the roles of women and children as primary victims of wartime violence such as rape and murder.
“These courts represent hope for justice and healing for survivors,” she noted, praising the community’s positive response.
Peterson K. Sonyah, Executive Director of the War Victims Association and a survivor himself, emphasized the importance of justice for victims who have long awaited accountability. “Some perpetrators continue to boast about their actions during the civil conflict without fear of repercussions,” Sonyah lamented. “The establishment of these courts will finally bring justice.”
In a press conference, Dr. Aaron Weah, Director of the Decor Institute for Social and Economic Research, elaborated on the broader societal benefits.
“These courts will not only serve justice but also establish standards to deter corruption for future generations,” he explained. “Liberia’s continued mismanagement of public funds hampers national development, allowing other countries to surge ahead.”
Madam Yassah D. Karmo, representing the Ministry of Internal Affairs, called on chiefs and traditional leaders nationwide to champion this cause. She stressed that corruption affects all sectors, including rural areas where public resources are often misappropriated or abused. “Our traditional leaders’ support is crucial for the success and legitimacy of these courts,” she said.
As the outreach campaign concludes, it leaves behind a renewed sense of optimism among Liberians, particularly in Nimba County, that justice and accountability will soon take stronger root.
The establishment of the War and Economic Crime Court and the Anti-Corruption Court marks a significant step in Liberia’s journey towards healing, transparency, and sustainable development.
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