IPNEWS: The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has announced new developments in the ongoing criminal proceedings involving Abdullai L. Kamara, confirming that the case has been advanced on the trial docket of the Second Judicial Circuit.
According to the Commission, the court has granted a motion to advance the matter, and the case is scheduled to be heard today, January 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
However, while acknowledging the advancement of the case, the LACC disclosed that it has filed a separate motion requesting the recusal of the presiding judge, His Honor Joe S. Barkon, from further handling the matter.
The Commission said its request is based on concerns it believes raise serious questions about judicial neutrality and the appearance of impartiality required in criminal proceedings.
In a statement issued Monday, the LACC outlined several grounds for its motion, including what it described as the improper application of civil procedure in a criminal case.
The Commission noted that Judge Barkon previously granted a motion to drop Kamara from an indictment by relying on a provision of civil procedure, despite the matter being criminal in nature.
The LACC further argued that the court’s decision to dismiss the indictment outright was contrary to remedies available under criminal procedure law.
According to the Commission, statutory provisions allow indictments to be amended to conform to the evidence, an option it claims the court failed to consider.
Additional concerns raised include what the LACC termed the unusual speed with which the motion to advance the case was heard and granted, leaving the prosecution with limited time to respond adequately.
The Commission also cited alleged conduct that it says raises concerns about bias, claiming the presiding judge was seen socializing with defense counsel shortly after issuing a ruling favorable to the defendant.
The LACC said such conduct creates an appearance of impropriety and undermines public confidence in the neutrality of the court.
“These actions demonstrate bias or, at minimum, a reasonable perception of bias,” the Commission stated, warning that allowing the judge to continue presiding over the case could prejudice the State’s position and erode public trust in the fair administration of justice.
The court has not yet publicly responded to the recusal motion, and it remains unclear whether Judge Barkon will step aside from the case as requested.
