Senators Jallah and Lawrence Introduce Bills for War and Special Economic Crimes Courts
In what is being hailed as a historic stride toward justice and accountability, Senators Joseph Kpator Jallah of Lofa County and Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence of Grand Bassa County have formally submitted two landmark bills to the Liberian Senate proposing the establishment of a War Crimes Court and a Special Economic and Corruption Crimes Court for the Republic of Liberia. The bills, rooted in Article 34 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, seek to give legislative life to Joint Resolution No. JR-001/2024, which calls for the creation of two distinct courts: one to address war crimes and crimes against humanity, and another to handle corruption and economic-related offenses.
“This is a defining moment for Liberia,” said Senator Jallah, chief sponsor of the twin bills. “These bills are not about revenge they are about restoring the dignity of our nation, healing wounds through justice, and ensuring that corruption and impunity no longer define our governance.” His co-sponsor, Senator Karnga-Lawrence, emphasized that the move represents a moral obligation to the Liberian people. “True reconciliation must rest on accountability and the rule of law. Our people deserve a Liberia where justice serves as the foundation for peace, prosperity, and good governance,” she said.
The War Crimes Court is intended to address the atrocities committed during Liberia’s brutal civil conflicts, providing justice for victims while upholding international human rights standards. It aims to serve as a national mechanism for truth, accountability, and healing ending decades of impunity for those responsible for grave violations. Meanwhile, the Special Economic and Corruption Crimes Court will target financial crimes, graft, and abuse of power. The court is expected to strengthen Liberia’s anti-corruption institutions, enhance prosecutorial efficiency, and rebuild public trust in governance. Together, the two courts are seen as complementary pillars of justice one addressing the sins of the past, and the other securing the integrity of Liberia’s economic future.
Senator Jallah’s legislative agenda has been anchored on strengthening the rule of law, promoting institutional reform, and ensuring equitable justice. Senator Karnga-Lawrence’s advocacy, on the other hand, continues to center on inclusive governance, women’s empowerment, and transparency in public service. Their partnership on these bills reflects a rare bipartisan unity demonstrating that justice and national renewal transcend political lines. Both lawmakers have called on their colleagues in the Senate to treat these bills with “the seriousness and urgency they deserve,” describing the initiative not as a political maneuver but as a constitutional and moral responsibility.
“We must build a Liberia where justice is not selective, where corruption is not a culture, and where the law serves all not a few,” Senator Jallah declared. Senator Karnga-Lawrence added, “History will judge us by the courage we show today to right the wrongs of yesterday.” As the bills await Senate debate, national attention is set to intensify around one of the most consequential legislative moves in Liberia’s postwar history one that could finally pave the way for truth, justice, and sustainable peace.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
