World Crimes Court Office Hold Dialogue With Partners On Traditional Justice

By Laurina B. Lormia
The Liberia Civil Society Initiative for Transitional Justice (LCSITJ), in collaboration with the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC), has concluded a one-day acquaintance meeting focused on traditional justice.
The meeting, held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Corina Hotel in Sinkor, is part of ongoing efforts to engage civil society, policymakers, and traditional leaders in dialogue on justice and reconciliation in post-conflict Liberia.
The gathering brought together key stakeholders to discuss the role of traditional justice mechanisms in Liberia’s transitional justice process.
Giving an overview, Executive Director of the Liberia Association for Peace and Advocacy (LAPA) and Coordinator of the Liberia Civil Society Initiative for Transitional Justice (LCSITJ), Seidu Swaray, underscored the significance of traditional justice mechanisms in fostering national healing and addressing past human rights violations.
He stressed that Liberia’s complex history of conflict requires a multifaceted approach to justice, one that includes both formal legal processes and culturally grounded solutions.
According to him, traditional justice systems have historically played a vital role in resolving disputes and reconciling communities.
Swaray highlighted that community-driven approaches can be instrumental in complementing the national quest for justice and accountability.
He pointed out that while formal judicial mechanisms are crucial, they often lack accessibility and local trust, making traditional methods an essential alternative.
According to him, engaging elders, chiefs, and customary leaders in the justice process, could bridge gaps between affected communities and national reconciliation efforts.
He called for a collaborative effort between civil society organizations, government institutions, and international partners to integrate traditional justice into broader transitional justice frameworks.
“By doing so, Liberia can foster a more inclusive and sustainable path toward reconciliation, ensuring that victims receive both recognition and redress,” he said, emphasizing that true healing can only be achieved when justice is not only served but also felt and understood by those most affected.
Speaking on behalf of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC), Executive Director Jallah A. Barbu stressed the importance of incorporating traditional justice mechanisms into Liberia’s broader transitional justice framework.
He highlighted that while legal accountability remains crucial, traditional justice can serve as a vital tool in fostering reconciliation and addressing grievances at the grassroots level.
“The establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court is a significant step toward justice for victims of past atrocities. However, we must also recognize the role of traditional justice in promoting healing, social cohesion, and reconciliation,” Barbu stated.
The meeting concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to continued engagement on transitional justice, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that includes both formal legal processes and traditional reconciliation mechanisms.
The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) expressed thanks and appreciation to Amb. Gerard Considine , the Irish Embassy and its partner, Dignity, for funding the conference.
Meanwhile, the OWECC-L and the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate in achieving the Office’s mandate as enshrined in Executive Order No. 131.
President Joseph Boakai, in May 2024, issued Executive Order 131 creating the Office and mandating it to lead the process of the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti- Corruption Court for Liberia.
The two institutions, according to a OWECC-L release agreed to play specific supporting roles in line with the terms and agreement of the MOU.
The LCC will support processes leading to the establishment and operationalization of the War and Economic Crimes Courts and the National Anti-Corruption Courts through coordinated efforts of assessment, advocacy, and awareness for OWECC-L’s programs and activities.
The LCC will also educate the public about the OWECC-L’s mandate, promoting awareness of Human Rights related issues, and at the same time encourage citizens’ participation.
The OWECC-L will establish an OWECC-L – LCC Coordination Team and lead the development and implementation of program activities, including strategy and implementation Framework.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, OWECC-L’s Executive Director Dr. Cllr Jallah A. Barbu reiterated the Office commitment to an inclusive process in executing the mandate.
He described the collaboration as history-making, pledging to work with all like minds like the LCC in bringing to closure Liberia’s bitter past and at the same time addressing the culture of impunity in Liberia.
Speaking earlier, the First Vice President of LCC, Rev. Sanjee Abioseh Stepter called for more inclusive initiatives, especially women’s rights protection in the process of establishing the court.
Rev. Dr. Christopher Wleh Toe who signed on behave of the LCC expressed thanks and appreciations for the openness demonstrated by the OWECC-L which he termed as vital to establishing the two courts.
The OWECC-L Executive Director Dr. Barbu signed on behave of his institution, as this latest MOU brings to two; the number of MOUs signed between OWECC-L and Transitional Justice actors.
In February 2024, OWECC-L and Integrity Watch Liberia signed an MOU on Gender Mainstreaming – supporting the protection of women’s right in the execution of OWECC-L’s mandate.
These MOUs come on the heels of the buoyant collaboration and coordination persists between the OWECC-L and Transitional Justice actors, especially CSOs.