MONROVIA – Justice Minister-designate Counselor Oswald Tweh has vowed to ensure the impartial dispensation of justice, including disagreeing with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai where necessary, upon his confirmation by the Liberian Senate.
By Obediah Johnson
Counselor Tweh assured that he would remain independent by providing non-partisan legal services in the discharge of his assigned tasks and responsibilities.
He made these comments when he appeared for confirmation before the Senate Committee on Judiciary at the Capitol in Monrovia on Thursday.
He stated that one serving as Minister of Justice must only hold total loyalty to the laws and constitution of the Republic of Liberia, and must also be willing to disagree with the President.
He said this requires responding in the negative to the Liberian leader when it borders on the strict implementation of the laws of the country.
Counselor Tweh said though he would work at the will and pleasure of the Liberian Chief Executive if confirmed by the Senate, he will provide legal justifications on directives from the President which intend to undermine respect for the rule of law.
He maintained that the Minister also has the mandate to see that the administration of public affairs is in full compliance with the law, by rendering advice to the President on upholding all laws and constitution of the nation.
He noted that his administration will stand by heads and officers of various security apparatus under the Ministry of Justice who are upholding the rule of law in the society regardless of who is involved.
“If I am confirmed, I will ensure that the law is enforced evenly and impartially. We will ensure that all agencies under the Ministry of Justice will do the right thing. They (security apparatus) should have the confidence that if they do the right thing, their Minister of Justice will stand with them.”
According to him, the interest of Liberians will also be protected in the discharge of his duties and responsibilities.
Counselor Tweh maintained he would not only uphold the rule of law and other national statures, but he will also respect the independence of the courts.
He observed that upholding the rule of law is not only the responsibility of the government, but citizens are also under obligation to do so.
He said though the government is under obligation to ensure that the upholding of the rule of law and good governance in the nation, citizens must be willing and ready to hold their government accountable towards upholding the rule of law.
Counselor Tweh stated that Liberians should also ensure that good governance is practiced by their government by taking actions when it fails to do so.
He said seeking redress through the courts must be the way forward to uphold the rule of law.
He promised to enhance and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement officers and the communities.
Counselor Tweh maintained that a strong partnership will be keen to combat against injustices and other violent crimes in the society.
He observed that Liberia remains faced with numerous challenges ranging from cyber security, drug trafficking, corruption, violent crimes, sexual and gender based violence, amongst others.
He said the proliferation of drugs in Liberia, especially among young people has consumed a very large population of the country.
Counselor Tweh observed that the influx of illicit drugs through the air and sea ports in Liberia continues to negatively affect the country.
This, he added, poses a national security threat to the nation and its people.
“We have to prepare and we have to acquire the capabilities to tackle these challenges. If confirmed, I will work with other governmental agencies to ensure collaboration in dealing with these challenges. We have to stop drugs and implement adequate coordinated measures.”
Counselor Tweh further observed the deplorable nature and over crowdedness of prison facilities across the country.
He said his administration will push for the construction of new prison facilities to guarantee the decongestion of the ones existing.
He noted that proper feeding; medication and other basic necessities would be provided to inmates through adequate budgetary allocation.
Counselor Tweh pointed out that legislation would be drafted and sent to the National Legislature to combat against cybercrimes through the use of internet connectivity sources.