RELEASE
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) wishes to inform the public of recent legal developments arising from ongoing corruption cases under prosecution.
On Monday, November 17, 2025, the LACC filed a Motion for Change of Venue in the case involving the President of the Lofa County Community College, Dr. Isaac P. Podah. The case concerns allegations of financial irregularities and misuse of institutional resources.
After arguments were presented, the motion was denied on Friday, November 21, 2025, by His Honor Judge Papesuah, Presiding Judge of the 10th Judicial Circuit, Lofa County, who ordered that the case proceed within Lofa County.
The Commission’s request for a change of venue was based on two major concerns:
- Continued Control of the Institution by the Defendant
Dr. Podah remains in full authority over the college, as no executive action has been taken to remove or suspend him since the indictment. The Commission believes that his ongoing leadership role poses a risk of direct or indirect influence over staff, students, and potential witnesses connected to the trial. - Potential Jury Bias Due to Local Ties
A jury assembled within Lofa County is highly likely to include students, former students, or individuals who may be professionally or socially connected to Dr. Podah. The Commission maintains that such community ties could create an atmosphere of prejudice, compromise neutrality, and hinder the fair administration of justice.
The Lofa Community College matter is one of two venue-change motions filed by the LACC this month. The second involves the Gbarpolu County “Yellow Machine” Case, in which the defendant is Superintendent Sam K. Zinnah. In that case, the Commission similarly petitioned for a change of venue, noting that Superintendent Zinnah’s executive authority poses a risk of juror intimidation, influence, or perceived obligation that may undermine the impartiality of the proceedings.
Across both cases, the Commission reiterates that its actions are guided by a singular objective: to ensure that justice is delivered without fear, favor, or undue influence. The LACC remains steadfast in its mandate to protect the integrity of the judicial process, uphold transparency, and guarantee that corruption cases are adjudicated in environments free from political weight or local pressures.
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission assures the public that it will continue to pursue all legal remedies available while working collaboratively with the courts to ensure fair and credible outcomes.
