The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has accused Criminal Court “C” Judge Joe Barkon of bias and partiality, demanding his immediate recusal from the high-profile corruption case involving former Acting Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) Commissioner Abdullai L. Kamara.
In a strongly worded release, the anti-graft body accused the court of misapplying civil procedure laws to a criminal matter, specifically referencing the judge’s alleged decision to drop Abdullai Kamara from the indictment based on provisions of the Civil Procedure Law despite the case being criminal in nature.
The anti-graft body accused the court of misapplying civil procedure laws to a criminal matter. They specifically cited the judge’s decision to drop Abdullai Kamara from the indictment based on Civil Procedure Law provisions, despite the case being criminal.
The Commission contended that the court ignored legislative provisions that allow for indictments to be changed based on evidence. The prosecution believes this alternative should have been considered before dismissing the charges. Adding to the controversy, Judge Barkon is also accused of being seen socializing with defense counsel shortly after issuing a ruling favorable to the defendant an action the LACC says raises serious questions about judicial ethics and the appearance of impropriety.
The Commission cautions that untreated conduct might undermine public trust in the justice system and the fight against corruption in Liberia.
