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By Lincoln G. Peters
Central Monrovia, May 14, 2026 — Liberia’s Justice Minister, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, has ordered an immediate joint investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) into the US$6.2 million economic sabotage trial involving former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah, Jr. and others.
At a press conference on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Minister Tweh addressed the jury’s verdict in the case against Mr. Tweah and the ensuing public reaction.
He announced that the Ministry would conduct a comprehensive internal review of every phase of the case, including the initial investigation, the presentation of evidence, and the selection of the jury.
“At the same time, we are not blind to the lessons of this trial. Every complex prosecution offers opportunities to learn. I have directed that the Ministry, together with the LACC, conduct a thorough internal review of every phase of this case, from the initial investigation through to the presentation of evidence and the selection of the jury. We will study what worked and what could be improved,” Minister Tweh stated.
He emphasized that this process is essential for building stronger prosecutorial capacity and for preparing for future cases. Minister Tweh noted that accountability applies not only to the accused but also to those entrusted with the power to prosecute.
Responding to sentiments that the Ministry of Justice did not do enough, Minister Tweh acknowledged the passion behind these concerns.
He recognized that the case carried the hopes of many Liberians frustrated by impunity for powerful figures and said it was natural for the public to question the outcome when a prominent individual is acquitted.
Nevertheless, Minister Tweh defended the prosecution team’s efforts, led by Solicitor General Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah, highlighting their dedication over almost two years.
He detailed that the team presented eight witnesses, including two former generals and officials of the Armed Forces of Liberia, and introduced eighteen separate documentary exhibits.
According to Minister Tweh, the prosecution submitted to the jury original transfer letters signed by then Minister Tweah, Central Bank ledgers showing the withdrawals, canceled cheques made payable to the FIA Comptroller, and testimony from the Deputy Minister for Budget (both then and now) confirming that none of the expenditures went through the lawful budget process.
“The prosecution did all this in the face of a defense that repeatedly tried to block inquiry by invoking the shield of national security secrecy. I am proud of what the prosecution has accomplished. To suggest otherwise is to diminish the very real convictions we secured and to discourage the kind of fearless prosecution that this country needs. I want to thank them for their hard work,” he concluded.
