MONROVIA, Liberia — A coalition of civil society organizations on Friday delivered a petition to Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh urging the government to increase financial and logistical support for the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Courts (OWECC–Liberia).
Human rights advocates, victims’ groups and pro‑justice campaigners gathered peacefully at the Ministry of Justice to present the petition, which they said is aimed at accelerating the establishment and effective operation of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (WECC–L) to help close the chapter on the country’s 14‑year civil war.
Receiving the document on behalf of the government, Cllr. Tweh commended the organizers for “responsibly exercising their constitutional rights” and for sustained advocacy to strengthen the justice system.
“The Ministry of Justice acknowledges your concerns and assures you that the Government will expeditiously review your petition and act where necessary, in line with established national priorities and budgetary processes,” Tweh said.
He encouraged continued constructive engagement with authorities and cautioned against actions that could lead to disorder or civil disobedience. “We understand the passion that drives your advocacy,” he added. “However, we urge you to remain law‑abiding and to continue to engage through dialogue. The Ministry remains open to consultations and partnerships with civil society to advance justice and accountability for all Liberians.”
Advocates say adequate funding and logistics are critical to stand up the court’s support office, sustain investigations, and ensure victim and witness protection—steps they argue are essential to ending impunity and reinforcing good governance.
The Ministry of Justice said it remains committed to working with civil society, international partners and the Legislature to equip justice institutions to fulfill their mandates “in the interest of peace, justice and national reconciliation.”
