Monrovia, September 26, 2024 – In a significant legal and political development, former Liberian Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. has expressed gratitude and relief after a Criminal Court “C” ruling granted him bail on September 25, 2024. The ruling comes amidst corruption allegations that have embroiled Tweah and other former officials from the administration of President George Weah. Tweah, who had been out of the country for several months, returned to Liberia to face charges of economic sabotage, money laundering, and theft of property.
In a Facebook post following the court decision, Tweah hailed the ruling as a triumph for justice and a sign of the independence of Liberia’s judiciary. He condemned what he called a “political witch-hunt” by the current Unity Party (UP)-led government under President Joseph Boakai, which has been pursuing legal action against officials from the Weah administration. Tweah argued that the charges against him were part of an effort to tarnish his reputation and that of his former colleagues.
Despite advice from some supporters to stay abroad, Tweah chose to return, confident in his innocence and the legal process. He framed the case as emblematic of broader political tensions, with the government using anti-corruption efforts to target political opponents. “I knew there had to be men and women who would stand for the upright enforcement of the law as it is written,” Tweah said, reflecting on his return to Liberia after months of absence.
The case against Tweah has become a focal point in Liberia’s political landscape. While the Boakai administration has prioritized fighting corruption, critics like Tweah argue that the efforts are selective and politically driven. The decision to grant him bail has been seen by his supporters as a significant victory, demonstrating that Liberia’s judicial system can act independently of political influence.
Tweah expressed heartfelt thanks to his family, including his wife, whom he described as a “prayer warrior,” along with friends, colleagues, and supporters. He pledged to speak further about the state of Liberia’s democracy in upcoming media appearances and encouraged his fellow citizens to continue working toward justice and progress in the country.
The legal battle, however, is far from over. Tweah’s case is expected to return to court in November 2024, where full hearings will resume. His ongoing legal fight will likely continue to shape Liberia’s political discourse, highlighting the delicate balance between justice and politics in the West African nation.
Liberian-born Emmanuel Orlind Cooper is an accomplished multimedia journalist with extensive experience covering news and stories on a variety of media platforms. Orlind's work frequently demonstrates his profound grasp of the region and its complexity, given his Liberian heritage.
Now residing in Woodbridge, Virginia, he keeps connecting with readers across continents with his perceptive journalism and sharing his viewpoint. He is well-respected in the sector because of his unwavering commitment to honesty and morality, which sets him apart in the field.
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