INCHR Renews Call for War Crimes Court

BOMI COUNTY, April 30, 2026 – The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) has dedicated the Maher Memorial in Bomi County to honor more than 150 civilians killed at the Maher River Bridge during Liberia’s second civil war, while renewing calls for justice and accountability.

The memorial, funded by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Finance, commemorates victims of the July 18, 2002, massacre along the Tubmanburg-Monrovia highway.

Held under the theme “Never Again,” the ceremony brought together survivors, relatives of victims, local authorities, national stakeholders, and human rights advocates in a solemn reflection on one of the country’s darkest chapters.

Delivering the keynote address, INCHR Chairman Cllr. T. Dempster Brown thanked the government for supporting the project and described the memorial as a national symbol of remembrance and a warning against future violence.

He said the Maher massacre site is among more than 150 massacre locations identified nationwide by the Commission as part of efforts to document wartime atrocities and preserve the memory of victims.

Brown emphasized that memorialization is essential to healing, reconciliation, and ensuring younger generations understand the cost of conflict.

He also assured families of victims that Liberia remains committed to accountability, noting that perpetrators of wartime atrocities must face justice through the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court.

Bomi County Superintendent Miatta Dorley praised the initiative, describing the memorial as an important step toward honoring the dead and promoting community healing.

She urged residents of the Maher community to protect and maintain the site as sacred ground for remembrance.

Relatives of victims welcomed the dedication and pledged to work with local authorities to preserve the memorial as a lasting tribute to loved ones lost.

The dedication of the Maher Memorial comes as national debate continues over transitional justice, reconciliation, and Liberia’s long-delayed effort to establish a court to prosecute those responsible for civil war crimes.