Monrovia — The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) today convened a high-level roundtable discussion and technical session focused on drafting legislation to abolish the death penalty. The initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing human rights and aligning Liberia’s justice system with international standards.
According to a statement, the session was held in the 6th Floor Conference Room of the Ministry of Justice, UN Drive/Sekou Toure Avenue, Mamba Point.
It was formally opened by the Deputy Minister for Administration and Public Safety, Cllr. Cora Hare Konuwa, who warmly welcomed participating partners, facilitators, and technical experts to the workshop.
In her opening remarks, Deputy Minister Konuwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of human life and promoting a justice system rooted in fairness, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity. She emphasized that the discussion reflects a shared vision among government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to modernize Liberia’s criminal justice framework.
Throughout the session, participants engaged in constructive dialogue on key issues, including the legislative framework, comparative legal models, and transitional justice mechanisms that can support a humane and sustainable approach to criminal sentencing.
Discussions also underscored the importance of public awareness, judicial capacity-building, and victim support systems in ensuring the effective implementation of this landmark reform.
The Ministry of Justice reaffirmed its commitment to continued consultation with all stakeholders as it moves toward preparing a comprehensive draft bill for submission to the National Legislature.
The technical session was held under the auspices of the Civil Society Human Rights Advocacy Platform of Liberia and brought together representatives from the Liberia National Bar Association, Law Reform Commission, National Legislature, Liberia National Police, Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Public Defenders’ Office, Independent National Commission on Human Rights, the Judiciary, and the host institution, the Ministry of Justice.
The MOJ however, clarified that, “This important process is being funded by the British Embassy in Liberia.”
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