Liberia: AYF Liberia Boss Urges Government to Expedite War and Economic Crimes Court Process

Monrovia — The Founder and Executive Director of the African Youth Fellowship (AYF), Ambassador Moses N. Buwee, has called on the Government of Liberia to accelerate the establishment of the long-awaited War and Economic Crimes Courts. He made this appeal following the 35th Memorial Service of the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Massacre, held on July 29, 2025, at the Lutheran Church in Sinkor.

Ambassador Buwee emphasized that while the creation of a War Crimes Court office is a positive step, the overall process remains significantly delayed. “Victims and perpetrators are dying without seeing justice. This delay is disheartening, and it’s time for the government to act with urgency,” he stated. He also expressed serious concern over reports that the War Crimes Court office is underfunded and that staff salaries remain unpaid. “It was deeply disappointing to hear that on the radio. If we are truly committed to justice, we must also be committed to properly funding the process,” Buwee added.

Reflecting on the Lutheran Church Massacre, which occurred from July 29 to 30, 1990, and claimed the lives of over 600 innocent civilians who had sought refuge, Buwee remarked that survivors continue to carry both physical and emotional scars. “I broke down in tears. Silence filled the room as survivors shared their painful memories,” he recalled. “What happened at the Lutheran Church must never be repeated in this country.”

He extended his gratitude to the organizers of the memorial, particularly the Lutheran Church Massacre Survivors Association, for their continued dedication to honoring the memory of the victims and advocating for justice.

Ambassador Buwee also commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for making meaningful strides toward national reconciliation, particularly through the symbolic burial of two former presidents and his public apology to the Liberian people. “President Boakai has demonstrated exemplary leadership,” Buwee said. “His apology and burial gesture reflect a sincere commitment to healing the nation’s wounds.” However, he stressed that reconciliation must be accompanied by justice. “We cannot build a new Liberia without accountability. What message are we sending to future generations if those who committed atrocities remain unpunished and protected?”

According to the AYF Executive Director, fast-tracking the establishment of the courts would mark a pivotal moment in addressing Liberia’s history of civil conflict and economic mismanagement. “This is essential to ending impunity and ensuring justice for the thousands of victims who continue to suffer in silence,” he concluded.

Ambassador Buwee’s remarks contribute to the growing calls from civil society organizations, international partners, and Liberian citizens for the full implementation of the recommendations made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), including the establishment of mechanisms to investigate and prosecute war and economic crimes.

The African Youth Fellowship (AYF) Liberia is a youth-led national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable peace, human rights, and youth empowerment. AYF actively participates in national and international networks, including the Alliance for Peacebuilding, a global network of over 200 peacebuilding organizations across 181 countries and the European Union Youth Dialogue Platform. These affiliations underscore AYF’s commitment to global dialogue and collaborative efforts for peace and youth development.

The organization continues to lead peace initiatives, host national conferences, and advocate for the establishment of War and Economic Crimes Courts in Liberia.