By Precious D. Freeman
The Ministry of Justice has officially declared April as Anti-Mob Violence Month, citing the alarming rise and prevalence of mob justice across the country.
In a ceremony held at the Ministry of Justice headquarters in Monrovia, a campaign banner highlighting the dangers and consequences of mob violence was unveiled in collaboration with the Liberia Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Liberia’s Defense Minister General Geraldine George, Police Inspector General Gregory O. Coleman, members of the Joint Security, and international partners such as representatives from the World Bank and UNDP.
The banner, prominently displayed, bore strong messages aimed at raising public awareness:
“Do you know that Mob Justice undermines our human dignity and creates a lawless society?”
“Mob Justice frustrates good governance and respect for the rule of law.”
“Mob Justice sends a message that drives investors away.”
“Mob Justice is a crime – educate your children and communities!”
Delivering the keynote address, Liberia’s Attorney General and Justice Minister, Oswald Tweh, described mob violence as a serious threat to national stability and the justice system.
He pointed to instances where mobs burned vehicles involved in accidents, set police stations and courthouses ablaze, looted prison facilities, and lynched alleged criminals without due process.
“The general wellbeing of our communities is seriously threatened by mob violence,” Minister Tweh warned. “Our system of justice and the authority of government are being challenged. Mobs are taking the law into their own hands.”
He emphasized that this campaign is meant to rally all Liberians around peace and the rule of law, reminding citizens that lasting strength lies in unity, compassion, and respect for human dignity.
“Any form of mob violence is criminal. This government will not condone or tolerate mob violence,” Tweh stressed. “It violates our laws and our democratic values.”
Minister Tweh announced that the Ministry will launch a nationwide campaign in partnership with civil society, traditional and community leaders, and youth groups.
The initiative will feature workshops, radio talk shows, dramatizations, and grassroots activities aimed at educating the public and promoting peaceful conflict resolution.
Representatives of the Joint Security, diplomatic corps, and development partners also expressed strong support for the campaign, pledging continued collaboration to promote peace, justice, and sustainable development in Liberia.
With this declaration, the Government of Liberia hopes to change public perception, restore faith in the rule of law, and reduce the troubling incidents of mob violence that continue to affect communities nationwide.
April Declared Anti-Mob Violence Month In Liberia
