By Jamesetta D Williams
The Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia (OWECC-L), Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, has stressed that Liberia cannot achieve genuine national unity without justice, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Speaking Tuesday during the 62nd National Unification Day Dialogue held at the University of Liberia Auditorium on Capitol Hill, Cllr. Barbu said unresolved grievances from Liberia’s civil conflict continue to threaten the country’s peace and long-term stability.
The dialogue, held under the theme “National Unification, Justice, and the Future of Liberia,” brought together former and current government officials, diplomats, civil society organizations, students, and other national stakeholders to reflect on Liberia’s democratic journey and future.
Delivering a goodwill message at the event, Cllr. Barbu emphasized that national unity must go beyond symbolic celebrations and instead be grounded in fairness, equality, accountability, and strong institutions.
According to him, sustainable peace cannot exist where justice is ignored or delayed.
“The wounds of Liberia’s civil conflict still linger,” he told participants, warning that failure to address past atrocities and economic crimes could undermine national reconciliation efforts.
Cllr. Barbu reaffirmed support for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia, describing it as a national necessity rather than an act of revenge.
He noted that the proposed court, mandated under Executive Order No. 164, is intended to promote accountability, provide justice for victims, deter future violence, and strengthen Liberia’s democratic institutions.
The OWECC-L Executive Director also highlighted the impact of corruption and economic crimes on ordinary Liberians, stating that such offenses continue to affect vulnerable communities, including market women, students, and struggling families across the country.
He called on young people, academic institutions, and civil society actors to champion integrity, reject tribalism, and contribute to building a more just and united Liberia.
Cllr. Barbu further urged stronger collaboration among government institutions, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and international partners in advancing peace, accountability, and national healing.
The event was organized by the Better Future Foundation, which was commended for promoting civic engagement and encouraging national dialogue on governance and justice issues.
The 62nd National Unification Day Dialogue concluded with renewed calls for inclusive governance, accountability, and collective commitment toward healing Liberia’s past wounds while building a peaceful, just, and prosperous future.
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