By Amos Harris
An expert witness took the stand on Wednesday in the high-profile Capitol Building arson trial, offering key testimony on audio recordings as the Government of Liberia continues to advance a transparent, lawful, and evidence-based prosecution aimed at upholding the rule of law. The testimony was heard during the 31st day of jury sitting for the November Term, A.D. 2025, at Criminal Court “A” of the First Judicial Circuit in Montserrado County, presided over by His Honor Roosevelt Z. Willie, Resident Circuit Judge.
The case involves former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and several other defendants accused of serious criminal offenses. In a significant procedural ruling that underscored the judiciary’s commitment to due process, Judge Willie barred testimony relating to the contents of an international fire experts’ report, emphasizing that only the author of such a document may testify to its findings. The court sustained a prosecution objection to defense questions regarding the report, citing the best evidence rule and reaffirming that witnesses may not testify on documents they neither authored nor verified. Despite defense objections, the court maintained its position, reinforcing judicial standards that ensure fairness, credibility, and integrity in the administration of justice.
Following this ruling, attention shifted to audio recordings linked to the investigation. Under cross-examination, the expert witness identified voices in one recording as those of Defendant Dixon W. Seebo, also known as “Gago,” and Patrick Saah Allie, reiterating earlier testimony that the conversation referenced the arson incident. The witness further stated that Seebo introduced himself in the recording, which was allegedly made in April 2025, approximately four months after the incident. The witness also noted the presence of multiple voices in the recording, including an individual identified as “Bundo,” who reportedly works at the Capitol. While the defense raised questions regarding aspects of the testimony, several lines of questioning were objected to by prosecutors and sustained by the court, reflecting firm judicial control over the proceedings.
A major highlight of the day was the confirmation that in the early hours of Wednesday, December 18, 2024, the Liberia National Police (LNP) formally requested technical assistance from the National Security Agency (NSA) to conduct professional voice analysis. Witnesses confirmed the involvement of NSA technical experts, demonstrating the Government’s reliance on competent state institutions and specialized expertise to support credible prosecutions. Throughout the session, Judge Willie conducted proceedings with professionalism and strict adherence to due process, which are hallmarks of the Government’s policy of respecting judicial independence and allowing the courts to operate freely and without interference.
Court activities commenced promptly at 10:00 a.m. following the Sheriff’s formal call to order, reflecting discipline, efficiency, and respect for legal tradition. After a brief administrative recess, proceedings resumed on schedule, underscoring the growing organization and effectiveness of Liberia’s justice system under the current administration. At the center of the case is a criminal action brought by the Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Justice, involving allegations of arson, criminal conspiracy, criminal mischief, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, and reckless endangerment of lives.
The presence of all parties—including prosecution and defense counsel, the defendants, and a full jury panel—highlighted the Government’s readiness to pursue justice in a fair, transparent, and orderly manner. The Ministry of Justice was represented by seasoned prosecutors, reinforcing the administration’s resolve to ensure accountability, protect public safety, and uphold the supremacy of the law. In a decisive clarification, Judge Willie also cautioned against repetitive questioning on matters already settled, reinforcing the Judiciary’s commitment to clarity, order, and timely justice as key pillars of democratic governance.
As the trial continues with further examination of forensic evidence and investigative methods expected, the proceedings stand as a clear signal of the Government of Liberia’s determination to uphold peace, security, and accountability through lawful and transparent means. The Government reassures citizens and the international community of its steadfast commitment to justice, due process, and the protection of the rule of law, as Liberia’s courts continue to function independently in the interest of national stability and democratic integrity.