JusticeFace Pro
JusticeFace Pro
May 03, 2026
Liberia

President Boakai Renews Mandate for War and Economic Crimes Court Office

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has issued Executive Order No. 164, renewing the mandate of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia for an additional year. This extension aims to fast-track the legal and institutional processes necessary to operationalize both the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court.

Background and Purpose

The Office was initially established under Executive Order No. 131 on May 2, 2024, and its mandate was extended by Executive Order No. 148 on April 30, 2025. The Office has conducted research and studies, and in consultation with both local and international partners and stakeholders, has drafted two separate bills for submission to the Legislature: A Bill for the Establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia and A Bill for the Establishment of a National Anti-Corruption Court for Liberia.

Commitment to Justice and Accountability

The successful completion of these tasks demonstrates Liberia’s commitment to transitional justice, accountability, and the fight against impunity and corruption, while also fulfilling its obligations under international treaties and conventions. The continued existence of the Office is necessary to ensure effective coordination with international partners, mobilization of resources, and technical support for the operationalization of the proposed courts, as well as to provide ongoing oversight until the courts are fully established and functioning.

Provisions of the Executive Order

Executive Order No. 164 includes the following provisions:

  • Renewal of Mandate: The mandate of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia is renewed for an additional period of one year.
  • Independence and Guidance: The Office shall operate void of political influence and be guided strictly by legal considerations, reflecting its achievements and progress made towards the establishment of the Courts.
  • Reporting and Accountability: All reports shall be subject to independent verifications and audits by the agencies of government authorized to conduct such activities.
  • Funding: The Office shall be semi-independent and continue to be funded as a grant line item within the budget of the Ministry of Justice, with an annual appropriation of United States Dollars Two Million, payable in equal quarterly installments of Five Hundred Thousand directed into its bank account(s), at the beginning of each quarter, by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.
  • Duration and Implementation Timelines: This Executive Order shall take effect on May 1, 2026, and shall expire on April 30, 2027, unless otherwise extended or revoked. The Office shall adhere to specified implementation timelines to ensure effective execution of the order.

This renewal underscores the Liberian government's dedication to establishing mechanisms that address past injustices and promote a culture of accountability and transparency.