The United States Ambassador to Liberia, Mark Toner, has reiterated the U.S. government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia. Ambassador Toner made the declaration during the 21st anniversary of the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement, held at the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Ministerial Complex over the weekend.
In his address, Ambassador Toner emphasized the necessity of holding key players in Liberia’s brutal civil war accountable for their actions. He highlighted that despite the nation’s maintenance of peace since the conflict’s end; there can be no true reconciliation or lasting peace without justice for the atrocities committed.
“There will always be disenchantment among war victims if those who committed heinous crimes against the state and its people are not brought to justice,” Ambassador Toner stated. He further asserted that Liberia cannot afford to rest on its laurels, stressing that political stability requires continuous vigilance, responsible actions, and rhetoric from political leaders, parties, civil society, and the media.
The timing of Ambassador Toner’s remarks was particularly significant, given the presence of two prominent former rebel leaders at the event—George Boley, leader of the Liberian Peace Council (LPC), and now Grand Gedeh County Senator, and Thomas Yaya Nimely, leader of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL). Both figures played central roles in the Liberian Civil War, which devastated the nation and left thousands dead.
Nimely, now a Senator, has been a vocal opponent of the Unity Party’s efforts to establish the special court, arguing that the government should prioritize improving the lives of ordinary citizens over pursuing justice for past crimes. However, Ambassador Toner was unequivocal in his stance, insisting that the Liberian government must take a firm stand against impunity if the nation is to move forward.
The US envoy’s position underscores the international community’s growing impatience with Liberia’s reluctance to address the legacy of its civil war. The call for justice has gained momentum among civil society groups and war victims who have long sought accountability for the atrocities committed during the conflict.
The Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement, signed in 2003, marked the end of Liberia’s civil war and laid the groundwork for peace and democratic governance. However, the issue of justice for war crimes has remained unresolved, with successive governments failing to establish the War and Economic Crimes Court.
As Liberia approaches critical national elections, the demand for accountability has resurfaced as a key issue. Ambassador Toner’s remarks signal the United States’ clear position that justice and accountability are indispensable for sustained peace and stability in Liberia. The ball is now in the Liberian government’s court to take decisive action in the fight against impunity.
