By James T. Brooks
PAYNESVILLE CITY – Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah has pushed back against public criticism regarding the pace of corruption cases under the Unity Party–led government. He insists that true accountability cannot be achieved through haste or political pressure, but must instead strictly follow the rule of law.
Appearing Thursday, January 8, 2026, on the state broadcaster ELBC, Minister Piah emphasized that the administration of President Joseph N. Boakai is committed to lawful prosecution rather than what he termed “4G-style” political processes that bypass due process.
“Prosecution is not a 4G process,” Piah stated. “Prosecution means taking people to court and allowing due process to take place. At the end of that process, the court decides whether a person is guilty or not guilty based on the evidence presented.”
Minister Piah argued that Liberia’s history of international sanctions and diplomatic isolation was largely the result of confrontational governance, human rights abuses, and a disregard for legal standards. He noted that, in contrast, no official of the current administration has been sanctioned for human rights violations—a fact he cited as evidence of improved governance and respect for democratic norms.
“Arbitrary arrests and imprisonments are not consistent with a government that claims to serve its people,” Piah said, adding that political persecution serves only to undermine justice and national credibility. He further clarified that once cases enter the judicial system, the Executive Branch has no authority to interfere.
Addressing concerns over the slow pace of high-profile cases—including those involving former officials like ex–Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah—Piah explained that delays are often the result of the legal system itself. He noted that defendants frequently exercise their rights to file writs of prohibition and other applications before the Supreme Court.
“Are we supposed to overthrow the judiciary?” Piah asked rhetorically. “We are not running an authoritarian government. This government remains committed to democratic principles.” He explained that while these defense filings inevitably slow proceedings, they are a lawful part of a democratic system that the Executive cannot halt.
The Minister also addressed claims that the government has retreated from its campaign promises to fight corruption. He clarified that the government pledged to ensure prosecution, not to guarantee specific verdicts.
“When you send people to court, two outcomes are possible—guilty or not guilty,” he said. “If someone is not found guilty, it does not mean the government failed. It means the judicial process worked.”
To demonstrate the administration’s commitment to justice, Piah referenced a high-profile incident where a vehicle was driven into a crowd, resulting in several deaths. He noted that the perpetrators were successfully prosecuted and are currently serving prison sentences.
Minister Piah concluded by stating that Liberia’s long-term stability and international reputation depend on the strength of its legal institutions. Despite public demand for rapid results, he maintained that justice must remain the government’s guiding principle.
“Anything outside the law only takes us backward,” Piah said, reiterating that the administration will not sacrifice due process for the sake of speed.
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