OWECC-L, INCHR Sign Justice, Accountability MoU
By Grace Bryant Mollay
The Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia (OWECC-L) and the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to solidify coordination efforts in support of human rights and the fight against impunity.
The signing ceremony, held in Monrovia, at the office of the INCHR in Sinkor, 20th street, brought together key stakeholders, including OWECC-L Executive Director, Jallah A. Barbu, INCHR Commissioner Dempster Browne, and members of the INCHR Board of Commissioners.
The partnership aims to streamline efforts between the two institutions in addressing past atrocities, holding perpetrators accountable, and strengthening the rule of law.
“This MOU marks a new beginning in our journey toward justice. It allows us to clearly define our collaborative roles, avoid duplication of efforts, and maximize resources. Together with the INCHR, we will ensure that the horrors of the past are never repeated in Liberia,” said Barbu.
The agreement, which has an initial duration of two years through 2027, aligns with OWECC-L’s timeline to establish a fully operational War and Economic Crimes Court.
Cllr. Barbu emphasized the importance of international support, noting that while the initiative is Liberian-led, technical and logistical assistance from the global community remains essential.
“We are not alone in this effort. This is a Liberian-owned process, but we count on our international partners for technical support, logistics, and political solidarity. Together, we are building a future based on accountability and human dignity,” he said.
INCHR’s Cllr. Dempster Browne called for national introspection and a renewed commitment to justice.
He underscored the horrors of Liberia’s brutal conflicts and criticized the continued presence of individuals implicated in war crimes within government institutions.
“We are still discovering mass rapes, like in Lofa, that were never captured in the TRC report. Some of those responsible are now senators and ministers. This cannot continue. We must prosecute those who committed atrocities no matter where they are hiding,” he said.
He noted, “This process is not about vengeance. It’s about ensuring a peaceful future for our children. There will be no political interference and should that happen, I will inform the Liberian people myself.”
Cllr. Browne also issued a warning to corrupt government officials, promising that impunity will not be tolerated.
“This country is being drained by corruption; cases are in court, but nothing is happening. Let me say this clearly: the days of corrupt officials are numbered. They will face justice whether in Liberia or at The Hague,” he declared.
The INCHR Commissioner emphasized that the TRC recommendations must be fully implemented and pledged the Commission’s full collaboration with OWECC-L to achieve that goal.
He cited recent developments including the near-completion of a war memorial funded by the Women Movement for Liberia and promised continued advocacy, particularly in Nimba County, where human rights violations persist.
Both institutions reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the estimated 250,000 victims of Liberia’s civil conflicts and called on the government and President Joseph Boakai to remain steadfast in upholding the rule of law.
The signing of the MOU marked a critical milestone in Liberia’s long road to reconciliation and signalled an united front in the quest for justice, healing, and institutional reform
