MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The South-Eastern Alliance of Liberia (SEAL) has called for a full judicial review of the recently concluded corruption case involving former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. and four other defendants linked to the alleged mismanagement and theft of US$6.2 million in public funds.
In a press statement issued in Monrovia, SEAL acknowledged what it described as “noticeable improvements” within Liberia’s judicial system and praised the government for allowing prosecutors to present extensive evidence before Criminal Court “C”. However, the Alliance expressed serious concern over the outcome of the jurors’ verdict.
According to the group, the defendants were jointly prosecuted under the same matter, making the mixed verdict difficult for many Liberians to understand. SEAL questioned how jurors could reportedly determine that public funds were unlawfully taken while selectively assigning guilt to only some of the accused and acquitting others involved in the same proceedings.
The Alliance argued that jurors, as representatives of ordinary Liberians affected by corruption and economic hardship, were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring justice and accountability. It warned that the outcome of the case risks weakening public trust in Liberia’s anti-corruption campaign.
SEAL further stated that if evidence established that US$6.2 million was indeed stolen, then the Liberian public deserves a transparent and logical explanation regarding how responsibility was determined among the defendants.
The organization also raised concerns that the verdict could fuel public perception that external influence or coercion may have affected the integrity of the trial outcome.
As a result, SEAL is calling on the Supreme Court of Liberia to conduct a judicial review of the proceedings and verdict to reassure the public that justice in Liberia remains impartial, transparent, and free from political interference.
The Alliance emphasized that corruption remains one of Liberia’s greatest obstacles to national development and good governance, stressing that anti-corruption efforts must be pursued fairly and consistently, regardless of political affiliation or social status.
SEAL concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, judicial credibility, and good governance across Liberia while urging citizens to continue supporting peaceful and lawful efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and preserving the integrity of the justice system.