Despite a ban on trial by ordeal, commonly known as sassywood, traditional authorities in River Cess County have recently conducted the ritual in the Wreuzohn Community, Upper Cestos City. In a highly controversial event, several individuals, including children, were paraded through the streets following days of ordeal-based trials led by a traditional ruler identified as Mother Gueh. Speaking to journalists during the ceremony, traditional leaders claimed the ordeal was prompted by confessions from two children, who allegedly named individuals involved in a secret witchcraft society.
The accused denied the allegations. According to the traditional leaders, they were authorized by the County Superintendent to summon an herbalist to determine the truth through trial by ordeal. The leaders further alleged that members of the supposed secret society had plotted to kill several traditional figures, including Chief Bob Kofi Zah.
However, several community members attending the event questioned the legality of the process, denouncing it as “jungle justice.” They also expressed skepticism about the claim that the alleged witchcraft society operated under a cartoon tree that has stood in the community for decades.
The Liberian Supreme Court has consistently ruled that all forms of trial by ordeal are unconstitutional and illegal. In 2007, Liberia officially outlawed sassywood. According to that ruling, anyone participating in or administering such trials may face misdemeanor charges, fines of up to US$200, or even murder charges if death results.
By Gabriel B. Sawah
