Monrovia, Liberia – The Kofi Annan Institute for Conflict Transformation (KAICT) at the University of Liberia (UL) and its international partners honored Liberia’s 21st anniversary of the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which concluded the civil war in the country 2003.
Under the theme “Reconciling and Uniting for Sustainable Peace in Liberia,” the event, which took place on August 30, 2024, at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, brought together government officials, international and local partners, parties that signed the accord, Liberian experts to discuss peace, ambassadors, women’s group, and students.
In the form of a dialogue, the commemoration provided an opportunity for individuals who signed the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement to share their experiences regarding the factors that motivated them to sign the peace accord, which ultimately brought peace to Liberia.
Professor T. Debby Syandee, Director of KAICT, provided an overview of the celebration, stating that it is not solely celebrated because Liberia has peace; rather, it is a time to reflect on the significance of twenty-one years of peace for the country and its citizens, as well as the steps that have been taken, the challenges that have been encountered, and the successes that have been celebrated.
He described the commemoration as akin to a national dialogue, which brings together Liberian experts and parties that signed the accord to deliberate on peace.
Cllr. Oswald N. Tweh, Minister of Justice, Republic of Liberia, stated that the Accra Peace Accord was signed twenty-one years ago, and Liberia and its citizens have demonstrated a commitment and willingness to maintain and sustain the peace through collective efforts and actions.
“We have conducted four democratic and peaceful elections, the fourth of which resulted in the election of President Joseph N. Boakai to the Presidency, and the peaceful transfer of power that occurred at each stage.”
Liberia’s Justice Minister stated that former presidents have consistently manifested their willingness and determination to preserve the peace that has prevailed for the past 21 years. Cllr. Tweh stated that the Liberian populace is the true MVP of the tranquility that is currently being experienced by all.
“Today, as we commemorate this extraordinary milestone, let us be reminded that there is still a significant amount of work to be done in the areas of reconciliation, healing, and bridging the gaps that remain in the dispensation of justice. We must also ensure that lawbreakers are held accountable and that the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission are fully implemented.”
According to the Justice Minister and Acting President, for peace to be sustained, people should be held accountable for their actions so that they do not go with impunity; saying, immunity breeds lawlessness, encourages conflicts and cause victims of conflicts to suffer in silence without any opportunity for healing, reconciliation and compensation for the wrongs done to them by perpetrators.
“In recognition of these obstacles, President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., issued Executive Order Number 131 on May 2, 2024, establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court. This court is responsible for the establishment of the requisite framework for a Special War Crimes Court, which will prosecute individuals who have committed the most egregious crimes during our civil wars.”
US Ambassador Mark Toner, on the other hand, stated that the brutal civil wars were brought to an end and that this lasting peace was made possible by the immense courage, commitment, and sacrifice of so many Liberians, including women, youth, civil society, and religious organizations.
“A number of individuals who were at the forefront of the effort are present today, including activists from the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace movement. They represent the thousands of women from across the country, whose peaceful demonstrations were instrumental in ending war and bringing about the peace we all enjoy today. I salute their courage, commitment, and love of country.”
Reported by: Prince Saah
Contact: +231778239813
Email: saahprince119@gmail.com
