President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has renewed the mandate of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court–Liberia (OWECC-L) for one year through Executive Order No. 164, signaling his administration’s determination to advance justice, accountability, and reconciliation in Liberia.
The Executive Order outlines several timelines and responsibilities for OWECC-L, including the development of a comprehensive implementation framework for both the War Crimes Court and the Economic Crimes Court within 120 days. The framework is expected to detail operational structures, legal processes, and resource requirements to ensure the courts are fully functional.
In addition to the framework, OWECC-L is required to submit quarterly operational and financial reports to the President through the Minister of Justice. This measure is designed to strengthen transparency and oversight, ensuring that the institution remains accountable to the Liberian people and their government.
The order also directs OWECC-L to begin dissolution actions as part of the transition toward fully operationalized courts. According to the Executive Mansion, this step reflects the government’s commitment to streamlining institutions and avoiding duplication of mandates.
President Boakai acknowledged the efforts of OWECC-L, particularly its role in drafting the two laws that will establish the War Crimes Court and the Economic Crimes Court and the Anti-Corruption Court. He praised the institution’s progress while challenging its Executive Director to continue engaging stakeholders throughout the process.
“The drafting of these laws is a significant milestone,” President Boakai said. “But the work ahead requires collaboration, transparency, and dedication. I urge the leadership of OWECC-L to deepen its partnership with civil society, international partners, and all stakeholders to ensure the successful establishment of these courts.”
The President emphasized that the establishment of the courts is central to Liberia’s pursuit of lasting peace and reconciliation. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and strengthening judicial institutions, ensuring accountability for past atrocities and economic crimes and the promoting of transparency and good governance as pillars of national renewal.
President Boakai noted that the Executive Order aligns with Liberia’s international obligations and responds to the aspirations of its citizens for justice and closure.
The government has called upon Liberians and the international community to support the implementation of this mandate. The renewal of OWECC-L’s authority marks a decisive step toward operationalizing the courts and advancing Liberia’s democratic consolidation.
The Executive Mansion assured the public that updates on progress will be communicated regularly, in keeping with the principles of openness and accountability.
