Monrovia – United States-based Liberian statesman and Pleasantville City Council member, James D. Barclay, has intensified his call for Liberia’s Inspector General of Police, Colonel Gregory O. W. Coleman, to recuse himself from the ongoing investigation into the reported seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$3.17 million.
Barclay, who has been vocal on matters of national security, the rule of law and Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs, is urging the Government of Liberia (GoL) to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently, transparently and in a manner capable of commanding public confidence.
According to Barclay, the Inspector General’s decision to recuse himself would send a strong signal that the Liberian Government is committed to combating illicit drugs, money laundering and other forms of transnational organized crime.
He argued that the reported cocaine case, given its financial value and potential international implications, requires an investigation free from any perception of conflict of interest, undue influence or interference.
“Recusal would demonstrate that the Government of Liberia is serious about its fight against illicit drugs and other transnational crimes,” Barclay said, emphasizing that maintaining public confidence in the investigation is critical.
Engagement with U.S. Officials
The Liberian statesman also disclosed that he has begun engaging U.S. political figures regarding the matter, including a meeting with U.S. Congressman Jeff Van Drew.
Barclay said that during his meeting with Van Drew, he requested assistance in connection with the ongoing investigation.
He further said he was surprised when the Congressman appeared to have prior knowledge of information he was preparing to discuss concerning the case.
Barclay did not provide additional details about the information discussed or explain how the Congressman may have obtained such knowledge.
He said his engagement with U.S. political figures is intended to draw greater international attention to the case and encourage the Liberian Government to ensure that the investigation meets appropriate standards of transparency, accountability and due process.
Barclay said he intends to continue engaging relevant stakeholders in the United States to keep Liberia’s international partners informed of developments surrounding the reported cocaine investigation.
Calls for Institutional Independence
Barclay maintained that Liberia’s efforts to combat illicit drugs cannot be effective if questions arise about the impartiality or independence of officials directly involved in investigating major narcotics cases.
He called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s Administration and the relevant security institutions to take all necessary steps to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.
The reported seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$3.17 million has generated significant public interest, with the case raising broader questions about Liberia’s efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, money laundering and other forms of transnational organized crime.
Barclay said Liberia must demonstrate that its institutions are capable of investigating major criminal cases without fear or favor, regardless of the individuals, organizations or interests that may become involved.
He also encouraged Liberia’s international partners to continue supporting the country’s law-enforcement institutions while promoting greater transparency and accountability in investigations involving narcotics trafficking and other serious transnational crimes.
No Presumption of Guilt
Barclay emphasized that his call for the Inspector General’s recusal should not be interpreted as a determination of guilt or wrongdoing against any individual connected to the case.
Rather, he said, his objective is to ensure that the investigation is conducted under circumstances that eliminate reasonable doubts about its credibility and independence.
As calls for greater transparency continue, attention is expected to remain focused on how the Liberian Government and the leadership of the Liberia National Police respond to concerns surrounding the investigation.
Barclay said the credibility of the process will ultimately depend on whether the investigation is seen by the Liberian public and international partners as impartial, transparent and capable of producing an outcome based on evidence and the rule of law.
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