Othello Sarweh Nimely
The Liberian government has suffered another lethal legal blow or setback after Criminal Court “C” of the First Judicial Circuit reaffirmed its earlier decision dismissing all criminal charges against former National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) Chief Executive Officer, Rustonlyn Suacoco Dennis.
Judge Ousman F. Feika rejected the Government’s motion seeking to overturn the Court’s March 17, 2026 judgment, ruling that the prosecution failed to present any convincing legal basis to rescind the previous decision. The Court held that the State’s arguments lacked merit and upheld the defense’s position as being in line with Liberian law.
In its original ruling delivered on March 17, Criminal Court “C” dismissed all charges against Madam Dennis, restored her constitutional rights and privileges, and declared that no criminal proceedings remained pending against her before the Court.
Madam Dennis had faced allegations of economic sabotage, fraud, and corruption brought by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) during her tenure as NOCAL Chief Executive Officer.
The allegations led to her suspension by President Boakai. However, after reviewing the evidence, the Court determined that the prosecution failed to establish a case capable of surviving judicial scrutiny.
Following that judgment, the Government filed a motion asking the Court to reverse its decision. The Court has now denied that request, effectively bringing the criminal case to a final conclusion.
According to a report, Madam Dennis reacted after the rulling. She lamented that while public officials may be subjected to accusations, preserving one’s integrity is essential.
”It is okay to be accused as a public figure, especially when people may not fully understand your work. What is not okay is to be wrongfully convicted of a criminal offense, particularly corruption in public office,” she said.
She maintained that every decision she made while serving as NOCAL’s Chief Executive Officer was intended to advance the interests of both the institution and Liberia.
”Exoneration was certain; it was only a matter of time. I am not perfect, but I would never intentionally harm my country. Everything I did at NOCAL was in the best interest of the institution and the nation. I remain committed to justice, fairness, transparency, and accountability,” she stated.
Madam Dennis appreciated the Judiciary, her legal team, her family, and the Liberian people for standing by her throughout the legal proceedings. She also reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, good governance, and national development.
Attention has now shifted to whether President Boakai will reinstate Madam Dennis to her former position at NOCAL, a question many Liberians continue to raise.
The Court’s latest decision has also fueled public debate, with many citizens viewing the outcome as another legal defeat for the Boakai administration.
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