Liberian president signs order to create war crimes court

Liberian President Joseph Boakai on Thursday signed an executive order to establish a war crimes court meant to bring overdue justice to victims of serious abuses committed during the West African country’s two civil wars.
The conflicts between 1989 and 2003 saw widespread atrocities including massacres, rape, and the use of child soldiers. A Truth and Reconciliation Committee later called for a special court to be set up to try those allegedly responsible.
However, no concrete action was taken until Boakai was elected last year.
The President proposed a resolution to create a special court, which was later backed by Liberia’s lower house and senate.
On Thursday, Boakai thanked the legislators for their work and gave his own final approval.