On Tuesday, Liberia’s senate endorsed the creation of a war crimes tribunal aimed at addressing long-delayed justice for victims of severe violations during the country’s two civil conflicts. The proposal, introduced by President Joseph Boakai, received approval in a vote by Liberia’s lower house last month and was further supported in the Senate with 27 of 29 senators in favor. Boakai’s final endorsement is now awaited.
This initiative has been met with enthusiasm from activists and civil society organizations who have long advocated for greater accountability for the atrocities committed throughout the civil wars from 1989 to 2003, which resulted in approximately 250,000 deaths and included widespread massacres, sexual violence, and the enlistment of child soldiers. Despite recommendations from a Truth and Reconciliation Committee for the establishment of a special court to prosecute those deemed responsible, significant progress was stalled until Boakai’s election the previous year.
The envisioned court intended to function within Liberia according to global norms and with support from international entities like the United Nations, will also extend its mandate to include economic crimes. Nevertheless, the proposal has faced opposition from some quarters within Liberia, who argue that it could reopen painful memories and challenge an existing amnesty law credited with ceasing the hostilities.