(January 8, 2025): The leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has engaged in constructive discussions with the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) to forge collaboration in fulfilling the objectives of OWECC-L.
During the meeting held in Monrovia, PUL leadership, led by President Julius Kanubah, affirmed their unwavering support for OWECC-L’s mandate. This initiative is crucial for ensuring accountability for wartime crimes committed between 1979 and 2003.
President Kanubah emphasized the importance of collaboration with media organizations, stating, “To achieve its mandate, OWECC-L should engage with media organizations and journalists through the PUL, which serves as the umbrella organization for journalists, media, and communication practitioners.” He added that the credibility of OWECC-L hinges on its public engagements through the media, which is essential for garnering public support for its initiatives.
Cllr. Dr. Barbu Jallah, Executive Director of OWECC-L, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the Office’s commitment to public education and transparency. He assured attendees of his Office’s dedication to keeping the public informed, stating, “There is nothing to hide.”
Dr. Jallah acknowledged the pivotal role of PUL in supporting outreach initiatives, noting, “We believe that PUL is well-situated to collaborate with our Office and civil society organizations. Effective outreach is essential as we engage with communities.”
The Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) was established through Executive Order No. 131 by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on May 2, 2024. Its mandate includes investigating and designing the methodology, mechanisms, and processes necessary for the establishment of a Special War Crimes Court and a National Anti-Corruption Court for Liberia.
The meeting was attended by Ms. Beatrice Sieh, Vice President of the Press Union of Liberia, and Mr. Christopher Selle, Media Specialist at OWECC-L.
The PUL’s support for establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court, as well as the Anti-Corruption Court, aligns with its core objective of promoting greater democracy in Liberia, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
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