Liberia’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh has labelled the barbaric act of mob justice as a grave concern which continues to threaten the fabric of all communities and jeopardize the security and well-being of citizens.
Minister Tweh pointed out the act of mob violence casts a long shadow over the fundamental tenets of democracy and the rule of law, and as such, this must be brought to an end.
The Justice Minister spoke at the weekend the launch of the National Anti-Mob Violence Campaign in Monrovia. “This unfortunate reality compels us to confront the challenges head-on, for the repercussions of mob justice extend far beyond individual incidents; they erode public trust in our institutions and jeopardize the stability of our beloved Liberia,” said the Minister.
He disclosed that the government is painfully aware of numerous acts of mob violence, which has in recent months, escalated alarmingly, culminating in the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of property.
He highlighted recent incidents in Weala and Paynesville, which demonstrated the depths of despair that can arise when fear and distrust replace faith in our judicial processes.
The violent outcomes of these confrontations, as seen in the horrific treatment of vulnerable individuals and the wanton destruction of public property, he maintained, starkly highlight the critical need for restorative justice and community resilience.
“Let me make it unequivocally clear: Mob violence is a serious crime that threatens the very essence of democracy and societal order. Today, I stand before you not only as the Minister of Justice but as a concerned citizen who believes in the rule of law and in our collective responsibility to uphold it. We cannot, and we will not, turn a blind eye to the lawlessness that has begun to take root in our neighborhoods. This government, under the leadership of President H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, categorically denounces these acts of violence and pledges a decisive response.”
In a bid to bring an end to this, Minister Tweh asserted that the launch of the National Anti-Mob Violence Campaign represents a renewed commitment to rebuild trust in the country’s justice system.
“By engaging our communities in dialogues and educational activities, we aim to empower our citizens to seek justice through lawful means—no longer resorting to vigilantism or mob justice.”
“Our campaign’s primary goals are twofold: first, to encourage citizens to pursue justice through the appropriate legal channels, instilling confidence that the justice system can and will deliver outcomes that reflect fairness, equity, and integrity; and second, to promote a coherent vision of a safe Liberia, where investment, economic growth, and social stability can flourish unimpeded by the specter of mob violence.”
In collaboration with civil society organizations, community leaders, the Liberia Motorcycle Union, and the Federation of Liberian Youth, Minister Tweh furthered that the government will raise awareness through workshops, talk shows, and community-based dialogues.
“Our efforts will focus on breaking down misconceptions and fostering peaceful resolutions. We must also address the deeper socio-economic issues that contribute to this climate of unrest, including unemployment and limited access to education.”
“Allow me to remind our citizens: the real strength lies not in taking matters into our own hands, but in seeking justice collaboratively within our legal framework. Each one of us has a role to play in restoring harmony and trust within our communities.”
“Any form of mob violence is criminal. This government will not condone or tolerate mob violence. It is a violation of our laws and a violation of democratic principles and values. The Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with state security agencies, will not relent in tackling mob violence and will take all necessary measures aimed at eradicating mob violence from our society,” stated the Justice Minister as he craved Liberians to choose dialogue over destruction, understanding over hostility, and action grounded in justice over reckless abandon of mob rule.
“Each of us has a role to play in dismantling this cycle of violence. Every act of mob violence not only inflicts harm on innocent lives but also erodes the trust and safety that are essential for a thriving society. When a mob reacts violently, terrible consequences occurred – you or your loved ones could be the victims.
“As we embark on this campaign, I call upon every Liberian to reject violence, to embrace dialogue, and to reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice that bind us as a nation. We can foster an environment where every citizen feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute positively to our shared future.”
