Monrovia, Liberia – The “Student Unification Party” (SUP), a group of University of Liberia students, has called for civil society and human rights organizations to unite in support of the fight for justice for victims of war and economic crimes. The group has endorsed and welcomed Cllr. Johanthan Massaquoi’s appointment as the Executive Director of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court.
Following his signing of Executive Order #131, which established the office to establish a war and economic crimes court in Liberia, President Joseph N. Boakai named Cllr. Massaquoi, Executive Director for the War and Economic Crimes Court on June 19, 2024.
After thoroughly investigating and verifying Cllr. Massaquoi’s credentials, the vanguard party has determined that the attorney satisfies all criteria and possesses the necessary moral and legal qualifications to serve the body. Because of his extensive background in legal ethics, criminal and human rights law, and investigation, Cllr. Massaquoi is an ideal choice to carry out this assignment according to SUP.
SUP believes that Cllr Massaquo longstanding records of legal investigation, honesty and integrity aren’t only enforcing qualities but also place him in the position to fully discharge the duties of the office of war crimes court.
The University of Liberia student organization claimed that Cllr. Massaquo’s duties as Executive Director included organizing support, attracting the necessary attention from abroad, and developing a comprehensive role map that will serve as the foundation for the establishment of the war and economic crimes court.
SUP sees the tasks as cumbersome and challenging as Cllr Massaquoi now carries the hopes and aspirations of all victims of war and economic crimes in Liberia.
They advise the Liberian attorney to serve with care, professionalism, and objectivity because this role will be a significant turning point in the fight to bring justice to the millions of abandoned and disheartened people who are the victims of war and economic crimes.
SUP claimed that following the announcement made by the Executive Director of the War and Economic Crimes Court, war criminals and human rights violators are uneasy and are pleading with questionable means to sow doubt, confusion, and fear among those who support the war crimes court and human rights players.
The group stated that in order to confront these reactionary forces who are plotting to destroy the people’s dream for justice, they noted that it is important to create a more powerful and resilient front that embodies the fervor and vigor of patriots.
“To ensure that this court is fully establish
ed and serves its rightful purpose, SUP uses this medium to call upon all human rights advocates, the coalition of civil society groups, youth and student groups, and all advocates for the war and economic crimes court to rally hands and stand in a gallant but very progressive voice with the Executive Director for the office of war crimes.”
The student organization stated that it is evident that many of the individuals who committed atrocities during the conflict are still in positions of authority and have substantial means to thwart efforts to hold them accountable. As human rights advocates, we must understand that by catering to their demands, we run the risk of losing our credibility and that the apparent consequences would benefit warlords and those in charge of them.
“We are urging every Liberian who still has faith in the pursuit of justice to take a stance right now and begin spreading widespread knowledge in their local communities about the importance of a war crimes court and the tremendous relief this court will provide to many Liberians.”
