Monrovia, Liberia — Prominent Liberian journalist E. Frederick Baye has raised serious concerns about the direction of Liberia’s justice system, citing what he describes as troubling developments surrounding a high-profile criminal case involving former Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Samuel D. Tweh, and several co-defendants.
Mr. Baye’s public commentary has reignited national debate about judicial independence, due process, and respect for the rule of law. According to the veteran journalist, ongoing public discussions and commentary on the Tweh case—while the matter remains before the courts—risk undermining the integrity of the judicial process and may amount to legal prejudice.
In remarks carried by a local media platform (Rescue-TV/GAR-Liberia), Mr. Baye questioned the increasing tendency for legal matters to be tried in the court of public opinion. He warned that such practices violate established judicial norms and could expose commentators to potential legal sanctions, while also weakening public confidence in Liberia’s jurisprudence.
The case at the center of the controversy involves allegations of economic sabotage against former Minister Tweh and others. Prosecutors allege that the defendants authorized the transfer of more than L$1 billion and approximately US$500,000 from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning to the Financial Intelligence Agency without proper authorization or a valid national security justification.
The defendants, however, have rejected the accusations, maintaining that the transfers were lawful and carried out under national security considerations. Their legal team has consistently argued that the transactions were properly sanctioned within the framework of government operations.
Judicial proceedings in the matter have drawn heightened attention following several key rulings. Criminal Court “C” Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie denied a motion to dismiss the indictment, ruling that the prosecution should be allowed to present its evidence in court. The Supreme Court has since intervened at various stages, issuing stay orders and postponing hearings, citing unforeseen circumstances and concerns related to judicial eligibility.
These developments have fueled public speculation about political interference and the independence of the judiciary. Some commentators argue that the prosecution may be politically motivated, while others insist that the courts must be allowed to adjudicate the matter without external pressure.
Against this backdrop, the local media plaftorm has called for restraint, transparency, and strict adherence to due process. The media institution says it is committed to highlighting issues that have far-reaching implications for the justice system and democratic governance.
The unfolding case has also placed the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. under public scrutiny, with observers closely watching how the so-called “Rescue Government” handles matters touching on judicial independence and accountability.
As the legal process continues, Mr. Baye and other advocates are urging Liberians to demand a justice system that is fair, impartial, and insulated from political and public interference. They argue that the outcome of this case could set an important precedent for the future of Liberia’s jurisprudence and the credibility of its courts.
