The U.S. Government through its Embassy in Monrovia has welcomed the appointment of the Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law Cllr. Jallah Allen Barbu as the Executive Director of the Office of the War and Economics Crimes Court (WECC).
The U.S. Embassy said on its official page that it looks forward to working with Cllr. Barbu in his role as head of the WECC. “We applaud the Liberian government and specifically Justice Minister N. Oswald Tweh for an inclusive selection process,” the statement said.
The embassy said the U.S Government stands ready to support the WECC Chairperson and all Liberians as the court is established to bring justice for the victims of the gravest crimes committed during Liberia’s civil wars.
On Friday, November 1, 2024, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai appointed Cllr. Barbu as Chairperson of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court.
Cllr. Barbu succeeds Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi who suffered huge criticisms from the Liberian populace with Dr. Neijay Pailey making the final conclusion when she served as orator for the July 26 Independence Day celebration.
Barbu’s appointment was due to a thorough vetting process conducted by a designated committee before an announcement was made by the president on Friday.
Barbu, as a legal luminary, brings nearly two decades of extensive legal experience to his new role. He is a respected public figure who served as Secretary General of the Liberia National Bar Association and Chairperson of the Law Reform Commission.
Cllr. Barbu is an associate professor at the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, where he has spent over a decade teaching and authoring foundational texts in various legal disciplines, with his expertise being sought by numerous government bodies, where he has played a vital role in shaping Liberia’s legal framework.
Barbu’s key contributions to legislative initiatives include pivotal work on the Special War and Economic Crimes Tribunal. His appointment will reinforce the court’s commitment to addressing issues of war and economic crimes, as his background aligns with the court’s objectives.
Many of his legal colleagues have hailed his nomination as the best suited candidate for the position, as Liberians are awaiting his leadership role as the country continues to navigate its complex history and seek justice.
By T.Q. Lula Jaurey
