By Steve Jackson
Voinjama, Lofa County โ The Office of the Solicitor General of Liberia successfully convened a three-day refresher workshop for 15 county prosecutors and court administrators in Voinjama, Lofa County.
Speaking at the opening of the Prosecution Quarterly Training Refresher on Thursday, May 1, 2025, Solicitor General Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah, on behalf of Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. Oswald Tweh, emphasized the importance of consistency, diligence, and preparedness in securing convictions. As the justice system continues to evolve, prosecutors must remain at the forefront, ready to respond to increasingly complex criminal cases.
โOur duty as prosecutors is not just to charge but to convince the court beyond a reasonable doubt. This requires hard work, coordination, and an unwavering commitment to justice,โ stated Solicitor General Fayiah. โThis refresher is not just about the law; itโs about strategy, integrity, and understanding the challenges ahead.โ
In closing, the Solicitor General reminded attendees that winning cases begins with preparation and ends with credibility. โJustice is not automatic; it is earned through the quality of our arguments, the strength of our evidence, and our professionalism in court.โ
County Attorney Cllr. Luther Sumo expressed gratitude to Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh and Solicitor General Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah for granting him the opportunity to host the first Quarterly Refresher for state prosecutors in many years.
Providing an overview of the training, Assistant Justice Minister for Litigation Cllr. Jerry D. K. Garlawolu highlighted that the Quarterly Training Workshop is a regular program for all prosecutors within the Ministry of Justice. It serves to report on cases that have been prosecuted, review the previous term of court, and adequately prepare for the upcoming court term.
The three-day refresher training brought together County Attorneys, Directors from various prosecution units, the Head of Court Monitors, Planning, Policy and Research Director, Mr. Prince Wonnawon, and Technical Coordinator/M&E Focal Person Mr. Charles Johnson of the MOJ, among others.
During their time in Lofa County, the governmentโs team of prosecutors seized the opportunity to visit significant local sites, including the Unification Monument, Voinjama Prison Center, and the Makoma River in Jallahmai, which borders Liberia and Guinea.
This workshop is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at bolstering the capacity of prosecutors and ensuring the integrity of the justice system, particularly in rural and underserved counties
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice firmly rejects a misleading social media report alleging that Justice Minister Tweh, who is currently on a private visit to the United States of America, has distanced himself from a recent official press release reminding citizens of the legal requirement to seek prior authorization before organizing public protests or street demonstrations.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, May 4, 2025, the Ministry clarifies that Thursdayโs May 1, 2025, press release, which frowns upon the April 30, 2025, protest by individuals who demonstrated without a permit, was issued with the full knowledge and approval of the Minister and Attorney General.
The communication served as a lawful reminder in line with existing regulations that stipulate the need for formal notification and clearance before public gatherings that may impact national security or public order.
โThe Minister remains fully committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all expressions of civil liberties are conducted within the legal framework,โ the Ministry stated.
โAny suggestion to the contrary is not only false but also a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine lawful governance.โ
The Ministry emphasizes its support for the right to peaceful assembly but reiterates that such rights come with responsibilities and conditions as defined by the law.
Meanwhile, the Ministry encourages Liberian citizens to verify information through official channels at all times and to avoid circulating unverified reports that may cause confusion or incite unnecessary tension.
