Liberia’s newly elected government, led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, is
taking decisive steps to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC), a
long-overdue measure to prosecute those responsible for atrocities committed
during the country’s two civil wars. Despite past administrations failing to set up
the tribunal, Boakai’s administration has endorsed a legislative vote supporting its
creation.
The international community, including the United Nations, the U.S., and
European nations, has welcomed the move. However, funding remains a
significant challenge, with estimates suggesting over $100 million is needed to
establish and operate the court. In the meantime, the government has created a
secretariat and appointed Jarla Barbu as its executive director.
The tribunal aims to deliver justice for war victims, hold perpetrators
accountable, and deter future conflicts. The process has faced political resistance,
notably from former warlords such as the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson, who
initially supported the court but later criticized it. Despite these hurdles, Liberia
remains committed to ensuring justice and national reconciliation.
General News
ECOWAS Ensures Regional Cooperation Amid Withdrawal of Three Member States
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially confirmed the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc, effective immediately. Despite their exit, ECOWAS has outlined transitional measures to ensure continued cooperation and minimize disruptions for citizens and businesses.
In a press release, ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to regional solidarity, urging all member states to recognize the passports and identity cards of citizens from the departing nations. Additionally, goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will still receive preferential treatment under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS).
The bloc also confirmed that, for now, citizens of the three countries will retain their rights to free movement, residence, and establishment within ECOWAS territories. Furthermore, officials from these nations working within ECOWAS institutions will continue to receive full support in carrying out their duties.
ECOWAS has established a framework to discuss future relations with the three nations, emphasizing the need to prevent confusion or disruptions during the transition. The decision follows months of uncertainty after military-led governments in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced their departure from the bloc in January 2024.
While their exit marks a significant shift in West African diplomacy, ECOWAS remains open to dialogue and future engagement with the three countries.
For further updates, visit www.ecowas.int.
Togo: ANC Expels 7 Members for Supporting the 5th Republic
The Alliance Nationale pour le Changement (ANC) in Togo, led by Jean-Pierre Fabre, expelled seven senior members for violating the party’s stance against the 5th Republic. These members were accused of participating in elections and activities aligned with the new constitution, which the ANC opposes. The expelled members are barred from representing or associating with the ANC and must return party assets. The ANC maintains its boycott of elections and rejection of the 5th Republic, viewing it as an affront to the people’s sovereignty.
Guinea: Political Parties Face Dissolution Deadline Amid Calls for Compliance
Guinea’s transitional government has set a deadline of January 29, 2025, for political parties to comply with regulations or face dissolution. A report published in October 2024 revealed that none of the 211 evaluated political parties met compliance standards, leading to the dissolution of 53 parties and placing around 100 others under observation. The government claims this initiative aims to “clean up the political landscape,” highlighting issues like lack of financial transparency and poor internal organization.
While some parties, such as the PEDN, have taken steps to meet the requirements, opposition groups suspect the government is using these regulations to target political opponents. Major opposition parties, including the UFDG and UFR, whose leaders are in exile, have yet to organize the required congresses.