By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has filed a motion requesting the recusal of His Honor Joe S. Barkon from presiding over the ongoing criminal proceedings involving Abdullai L. Kamara, citing concerns over judicial neutrality and the appearance of impartiality.
In a statement released Monday, the Commission confirmed that a motion to advance the case on the trial docket of the 2nd Judicial Circuit Court has been granted.
As a result, the matter is scheduled to be heard today, January 12, 2026, While acknowledging the court’s decision to expedite the hearing.
The LACC disclosed that it has filed a separate motion seeking Judge Barkon’s recusal, arguing that several actions taken by the court raise serious legal and ethical concerns that could undermine public confidence in the judicial process.
Among the issues cited by the Commission is the alleged application of civil procedure rules in a criminal matter.
LACC contends that the presiding judge previously granted a motion to drop Kamara from an indictment by relying on provisions of civil procedure, despite the case being criminal in nature.
The Commission further argues that the dismissal of the indictment was contrary to established criminal procedure law.
According to the LACC, rather than applying remedies clearly available under criminal procedure, the court opted to dismiss the indictment outright, a decision the prosecution maintains was legally improper.
Additionally, the LACC claims the court failed to apply statutory provisions that allow indictments to be amended to conform to the evidence.
Prosecutors argue that this option should have been considered instead of dismissing the charges.Concerns were also raised about the speed with which the motion to advance the case was heard and granted.
The Commission described the process as unusually swift, leaving the prosecution with limited time to adequately prepare and respond.
, According to the LACC, the alleged conduct by the presiding judge is troubling and raises concerns about bias.
The Commission claims Judge Barkon was seen socializing with defense counsel shortly after issuing a ruling favorable to the defendant, an action it says creates the appearance of impropriety.
“These actions, taken collectively, demonstrate bias or at least the reasonable perception of bias,” the Commission stated.
“Allowing the judge to continue presiding over this matter risks prejudicing the State’s case and eroding public trust in the fair administration of justice.”
The Commission emphasized that its motion is not a challenge to judicial authority but a call to uphold the integrity, neutrality, and credibility of the courts, particularly in corruption-related prosecutions that attract significant public interest.
As of press time, neither the defense nor the judiciary had issued an official response to the Commission’s motion for recusal.
The outcome of today’s hearing is expected to determine the next phase of the case and whether a different judge will be assigned to preside over the proceedings.
