Monrovia — Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), a prominent civil society organization in Liberia, has praised the Liberia National Police (LNP) for reopening the investigation into the death of Emmanuel Barten Nyeswua, the former Director of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA).
By Francis G. Boayue
In a press release on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, STAND stated: “We believe that the LNP’s commendable decision to reopen the investigation into the unresolved death of Mr. Nyeswua will foster a climate of justice in Liberia, strengthen the rule of law, and provide closure for his family.”
STAND emphasized that this significant step underscores the undeniable fact that true democracy and the rule of law cannot thrive in the absence of accountability and justice. The organization stressed that the police’s decision to reopen the Barten Nyeswua murder case must remain resolute, following the trail of evidence without hesitation.
Additionally, STAND urged the Liberia National Police to broaden the investigation to include all unsolved murders, such as the mysterious deaths of auditors, security officers, and instances of electoral violence. Some of these cases include Albert Peters, Internal Auditor, LRA, Gifty Lama, Research Analyst, LRA/Tax Payer Division, George B. Fahnbutu, Revenue Auditor, LRA, Agent Melvin Earley, Officer, EPS, Sgt. Bobby Manneh, Officer, AFL and Amanda Nebo, Police Officer, LNP.
STAND noted that the LNP has identified several individuals, including high-level officials from the previous government, as “persons of interest” in the investigation into Mr. Nyeswua’s alleged murder. The organization urged the police to follow the evidence impartially, regardless of where it leads, while ensuring the fundamental rights of every accused are protected.
STAND cautioned the LNP to conduct the investigation within the boundaries of the law, remaining vigilant to avoid partisan biases or errors that could undermine justice and create gaps in the system, allowing perpetrators to evade prosecution. The organization reiterated that while this action by the Liberia National Police is long overdue, it is a step in the right direction expected of any civilized nation and responsible government.
The organization said ensuring justice, upholding the rule of law, holding perpetrators accountable, and providing closure to families facing suspicious deaths are fundamental responsibilities that no government can indefinitely ignore or “sweep under the carpet.” STAND reminded the Boakai administration of its moral obligation to uphold its promises, encouraging the President to ensure that justice prevails, particularly for victims of injustice and families who have lost loved ones.
STAND also questioned how Ms. Queen Johnson, once identified by the Liberia National Police as a “person of interest” in the investigation of Joshua Solomon’s mobbing death, is now a government employee and seemingly free from prosecution. STAND stated: “As we await answers, it is hoped that Madam Johnson, whose current whereabouts have been traced to the National Port Authority, will either be brought before the court to face charges of murder or be released only by a competent judicial authority.”
In October 2020, Nyeswua and three auditors of the Liberian Revenue Authority died under questionable circumstances. However, the police said they did not find any evidence of foul play. While advocating for an equitable justice system for every Liberian citizen without bias, STAND emphasized that true justice can only be achieved when the investigation and prosecution processes are credible, transparent, and free from political interference.
STAND called on the Liberia National Police to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and honesty in pursuing all police investigations. Given the complex intricacies and potential political considerations that may inevitably arise, STAND recommended that the Boakai administration seek the assistance and support of independent bodies, including international partners, to ensure an unbiased and nonpartisan investigation into these national tragedies.
