The government has issued an Interpol alert for former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah, who has refused to appear in court to clear his name regarding an indictment issued against him and other former government officials.
Minister Jerolinmek Piah stated that after Tweah was indicted, he immediately took to social media, denouncing the charges as a political witch-hunt and vowing to defeat the allegations.
However, he has yet to make an appearance to defend himself in court.
“Maybe you are not aware, but an Interpol alert has been issued for him,”Piah revealed during an interview on the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) on Monday, August 12, 2024.
Piah noted that Tweah has posted more than 30 times on social media, accusing the government of targeting former officials, and promising to return and clear his name.
According to the minister, while Tweah has had time to write numerous posts, he has yet to make an appearance in court.
He said, ‘This witch-hunt will be defeated in the court of law.’ How long has it been since then?” Piah questioned.
Piah criticized Tweah’s refusal to return to Liberia after being indicted, stating that it shows a disregard for the rule of law. He emphasized that the issue should be resolved in court, not through public debate.
He further highlighted that anyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but by not appearing, Tweah’s actions could be seen as an admission of guilt.
“I am not a lawyer, but common legal reasoning says if you flee an indictment, it can be considered an admission of guilt. This is why, even if you are in Timbuktu, if you’re charged with a crime, you should return to clear your name. Running away suggests guilt,” Piah explained.
The Information Minister reiterated that the Liberian government remains committed to accountability and transparency in public service, vowing to pursue justice in all cases.
Piah expressed frustration that individuals who once advocated for the rule of law are now calling the process a witch-hunt.
He stressed that the government’s actions are based on reports from the General Auditing Commission and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, not political motivations.
He urged Liberians to support the pursuit of accountability, advising citizens not to allow themselves to be used in protests against the process.
Piah also reminded the public that this is not the first time government officials have been held accountable. In the past, accused officials have submitted to the process and cleared their names, and he encouraged those who believe they are innocent to do the same.
He concluded that the government’s stance remains firm that this is not a witch-hunt but a matter of public accountability based on legal evidence.
