Ambassador Moses N. Buwee, Executive Director of the African Youth Fellowship (AYF) Liberia, has renewed calls for swift action by the Liberian government in setting up War and Economic Crimes Courts, describing the current pace as “painfully slow” and “unjust to victims.”
His appeal came during the 35th commemoration of the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Massacre, held on July 29 at the Lutheran Church in Sinkor — a solemn event marking the brutal killing of over 600 civilians in 1990.
“We’ve taken some steps — but they’re too few, and too late for many,” Buwee said, referencing the formation of a War Crimes Court office. “People are dying without answers as ustice delayed is justice denied”, he re-emphasized.
Buwee expressed frustration upon learning that the War Crimes Court office is reportedly underfunded, with staff salaries unpaid for over six months.
“Hearing that on the radio was disturbing. If we are truly committed to justice, we must fund it adequately. Justice can’t be symbolic — it has to be operational”, he maintained.
He explained that the July 29–30, 1990 massacre remains one of the most harrowing chapters of Liberia’s civil war as Survivors, many of whom attended the memorial, shared painful recollections.
“The room was silent as survivors spoke. I couldn’t hold back tears. What happened at the Lutheran Church must never happen again”, he cautioned all.
At he same time, He thanked the Lutheran Church Massacre Survivors Association and other organizers for their resilience and tireless advocacy for justice.
Moreover, Buwee acknowledged recent efforts by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to promote reconciliation, such as the ceremonial burial of former national leaders and a formal apology to citizens.
“President Boakai has shown leadership,” he said. “His gestures toward healing are commendable. But reconciliation without accountability is incomplete. Justice must follow””, he reechoed.
For Buwee and the AYF, the establishment of War and Economic Crimes Courts is about more than closure, it’s about shaping Liberia’s future.
“We must break the cycle of impunity. If we ignore the past, we risk repeating it. What message are we sending to the next generation if we protect those who destroyed lives and looted our nation”? He blasted.
He also urged the full implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)’s recommendations, including investigation and prosecution of war and economic crimes.
AYF Liberia is a youth-led nonprofit working to advance peace, human rights, and youth empowerment. The organization is an active participant in global peacebuilding networks such as the Alliance for Peacebuilding and the EU Youth Dialogue Platform.
In Liberia, AYF remains at the forefront of peace efforts, hosting national forums, engaging with stakeholders, and advocating for the long-overdue courts that many believe are key to true national healing.
