MONROVIA, Liberia — Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Mulbah has cautioned lawmakers against approving provisions in the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court legislation that he believes could conflict with Liberia’s Constitution, while reaffirming his support for accountability for atrocities committed during the country’s civil wars.
Mulbah, who supported the legislative resolution that paved the way for Executive Order 131, said his commitment to establishing a mechanism to prosecute perpetrators of war-related atrocities and economic crimes remains unchanged.
However, he expressed reservations about several provisions in the harmonized draft bills, particularly those concerning the reversal of the burden of proof, retroactive criminal prosecution, and limitations on the Supreme Court’s oversight authority.
The District #3 lawmaker argued that such provisions could undermine established constitutional protections and raise serious questions about the fairness and legality of the proposed judicial framework.
He also challenged the proposed use of anonymous witnesses, warning that it could compromise defendants’ rights to confront their accusers and conduct cross-examinations, which are essential safeguards in criminal proceedings.
Beyond his objections to specific provisions, Mulbah called for nationwide town hall meetings to provide citizens with opportunities to scrutinize the proposed legislation and contribute to the national debate before its enactment.
He maintained that the pursuit of justice for victims of Liberia’s civil wars and economic crimes should not be pursued at the expense of constitutional guarantees.
Mulbah pledged to oppose and vote against any provision he considers unconstitutional, emphasizing that the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court must be grounded in Liberia’s Constitution and consistent with the principles of due process, judicial independence, and the rule of law.
