By Socrates Smythe Saywon
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Bishop Dr Kortu K. Brown, former President of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), has commended the Liberian Senate for their bipartisan approach in addressing impunity two decades after the civil war.
In a significant move on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 27 out of 28 Senators signed a joint resolution establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia during a session held yesterday at the Senate Chamber. This endorsement, hailed by rights activists, signals Liberia’s progress towards peace and stability.
In an execlusive interview with Smart News Liberia today, Bishop Brown expressed his belief that the consensus achieved by lawmakers in passing the resolution could serve as a model for addressing other pressing national issues. He highlighted challenges such as the overloaded civil service and salary issues, noting past initiatives by different administrations to address these concerns.
Regarding the court establishment, Bishop Brown emphasized the importance of a clear framework, healing, and community outreach programs. He stressed the need for tangible justice, which includes reparations, reconciliation, and memorialization, over what he termed as “abstract justice,” merely focusing on legal proceedings without meaningful impact.
In conclusion, Bishop Brown expressed optimism, stating that the journey towards justice and stability has begun with the Senate’s resolution. He urged continued collaboration across party lines to stabilize the civil service and address other critical issues facing Liberia.