–Urges Him Not To Become An Unwitting Pawn In A Misinformation Campaign
The Office of the National Security Advisor has expressed concern over recent media reports in which the Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC-L), Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, allegedly accused the National Security Advisor of being non-cooperative, undermining, and delaying the work of his office.
The National Security Advisor, Attorney Samuel K. Woods, II, has categorically rejected these allegations as false, unfounded, and ill-fated. He said his office remains fully committed to advancing national security, the rule of law, and accountability for past atrocities in Liberia, consistent with the vision of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and the ARREST Agenda.
According to Atty. Woods, the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court is a central pillar of the government’s commitment to truth, justice, and reconciliation; as such, he has consistently supported this process and will not obstruct or undermine it.
“Executive Order #131 clearly outlines the legal framework governing OWECC-L. The Executive Director reports to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General—not the National Security Advisor. Accordingly, all proposals must follow established legal procedures within the Justice Ministry as outlined by the Attorney General.
“The Attorney General/Minister of Justice has adequately responded to Cllr. Barbu’s allegations. If there is specific evidence of the said allegations, Cllr. Barbu will serve our country well by reporting such acts to the President for appropriate action. Allegations without specifics are unhelpful and risk undermining public confidence in an important national process,” the Office of the National Security Advisor observed.
In a statement issued this week, the Office of the National Security Advisor cautioned against attempts to politicize or misrepresent the transitional justice process. Such actions, Atty. Woods said, only distract from the collective responsibility required to ensure accountability and reconciliation.
“The record of Attorney Samuel K. Woods, II, Liberia’s current National Security Advisor, reflects a longstanding commitment to human rights and justice in Liberia. His contributions to advancing accountability are well established, including his role in strengthening national security policy to incorporate justice and human rights considerations.
“He paid his dues when newly baptized advocates were taking cover and, in some cases, collaborating with warlords. He advocated for accountability when cowards were betraying the cause. Thus, it is laughable that the same national security advisor will seek to undermine the work to which he has dedicated his life. For what other nobler cause? This is why the disingenuous conspiracy aimed at distorting his record will fall flat on its face,” The Office of the National Security Advisor further observed.
“It can be recalled that a few days ago, the National Security Advisor revealed a deliberate misinformation campaign against him, being orchestrated by certain individuals, including some from abroad who believe they can hijack Liberia’s transitional justice process for their own gains. We hope that these wild and far-fetched allegations by Cllr. Barbu is not part of this evil conspiracy. Cllr. Barbu must take care not to become an unwitting pawn and a gullible vessel in this campaign,” the National Security Advisor’s office added.
The Office clarified that the role of the National Security Advisor is strictly advisory and analytical, involving a more comprehensive responsibility: human security, food security, energy, agriculture, and other sectors. “Security is being redefined to identify threats, risks, and propose solutions. It does not involve operational law enforcement functions, which remain the responsibility of legally mandated institutions. However, it will work with all institutions to ensure that policies are designed and implemented to promote greater respect for human rights and dignity,” the Office pointed out in a press statement.
The Office of the National Security Advisor then assured the people of Liberia that it will continue to redefine and reform the concept of security, dealing with sectoral risks and threats, and offering policy guidance/options to the President, and vowed never to engage in witch-hunting, ordering arrests, etc., as some have claimed. “We were victims and will never perpetuate the same system,” the statement noted.
Meanwhile, the Office of the National Security Advisor has reaffirmed its full support for the President’s directive on transitional justice and the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court. All stakeholders are encouraged to work collaboratively in the national interest, avoiding divisive rhetoric and focusing on achieving justice and lasting peace.
Finally, the Office of the National Security Advisor suggested an independent performance evaluation, an audit of the Office of War and Economic Crimes, and an investigation into these allegations to help lay bare the facts, and punitive measures can be taken where necessary.
