By Jamesetta D Williams
MONROVIA – Former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. has taken his grievances beyond Liberia’s borders, formally appealing to the international community over what he describes as a politically motivated campaign targeting opposition figures under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration.
In a letter addressed to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and several international leaders and institutions, Tweah accused the government of using anti-corruption efforts as a tool to silence political opponents, particularly members of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC).
The former minister’s appeal follows his acquittal on May 8, 2026, in a widely publicized corruption case involving allegations of economic sabotage, theft of property, money laundering, and the alleged mismanagement of US$6.2 million. A 15-member jury found Tweah and his co-defendant, Moses Cooper, not guilty on all counts.
Despite the verdict, the case has continued to generate controversy after authorities launched an inquiry into allegations of jury tampering. The investigation was prompted by concerns raised by three jurors who reportedly disagreed with the final verdict.
Tweah and his legal team have strongly opposed the move, describing it as an attempt to undermine the outcome of the trial. His lawyers have since petitioned the Supreme Court, seeking to stop the investigation and arguing that the court no longer has authority over jurors once they have been discharged.
According to Tweah, the legal proceedings against him form part of a broader pattern of political intimidation aimed at weakening the CDC ahead of the 2029 general elections.
He further alleged that the government’s actions represent an abuse of state power and warned that continued political interference in judicial matters could threaten Liberia’s democratic progress.
In his communication to international stakeholders, Tweah also raised concerns about what he characterized as declining respect for the rule of law. He cited recent disputes surrounding Supreme Court rulings, the ongoing controversy involving the House of Representatives, and decisions affecting certain public officials whose appointments were previously protected by court opinions.
The concerns mirror criticisms previously expressed by former President George Manneh Weah, who recently raised issues regarding judicial independence and executive actions during discussions with international partners.
Tweah’s letter was reportedly copied to several regional and international bodies, including the African Union, ECOWAS, the European Council, and members of the United States Congress with interests in human rights and democratic governance.
He called on Liberia’s international partners to closely monitor developments in the country, warning that political tensions could deepen if democratic institutions are perceived as being compromised.
Meanwhile, reports of a new investigation involving approximately US$21 million allegedly linked to officials of the former CDC administration have added another layer to the growing political debate. Supporters of the former ruling party view the probe as evidence of continued political targeting, while government officials maintain that accountability efforts must proceed regardless of political affiliation.
As the Supreme Court prepares to consider the petition challenging the jury investigation, attention remains focused on the judiciary’s next steps and the potential impact of the case on Liberia’s political landscape.
The government has yet to formally respond to the latest allegations contained in Tweah’s letter to the international community.
About The Author
