BAKEDU, Lofa County — The Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) joined bereaved families, survivors, and human rights advocates on July 12, 2025, to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Bakedu Massacre, a tragic chapter in Liberia’s civil conflict.
On July 12, 1990, more than 300 civilians were reportedly killed in Bakedu, Lofa County, by fighters of the National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) following the takeover of the area. Survivors recalled harrowing scenes of betrayal and violence.
“The NPFL rebels asked our head elder to summon the community to the Town Hall, claiming they had an important message from the government. As a gesture of goodwill, we presented them with US$1,000 and a cow, but instead, they opened fire on us,” one survivor recounted during the memorial service.
The event featured solemn prayers for the victims and survivors, many of whom still carry both physical and emotional scars from the violence. Community leaders used the occasion to call for justice and accountability for those responsible for the atrocity.
“If this War Crimes Court is not established, it will be a betrayal of our trust in the government,” said Mohammed Konneh, District Commissioner of Quadu Gboni. “We are praying for our uncle, Executive Director Cllr. Jallah Barbu, for Allah’s guidance as he leads this process.”
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director, OWECC-L Associate Director for War Crimes, Mr. Parker S. Barcolleh, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice and accountability.
“As part of the healing process, the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court will ensure that both the accused and the victims are given due process,” Mr. Barcolleh emphasized.
The memorial brought together participants from national and international organizations, including the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, the Liberia Massacre Survivors Association, the National Rural Women, WIPNET, and People Uniting for Peace in Liberia.
