Liberia: Court Fines Government Lawyers $1,500 for Disobeying Order in Cherif Case
Monrovia – The Criminal Court ‘A’ at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia witnessed tense proceedings on Wednesday as prosecution and defense clashed over the extradition of Abraham Khalil Cherif,
By Watson Richards, contributing writer
a suspect handed over to the Guinean government despite a standing court order.
During the hearing, the Prosecution defended its decision, arguing that Cherif posed a significant national security threat, which justified his extradition.
They maintained that national security considerations take precedence over all other interests.
The Ministry of Justice assured the court and the Defense that Cherif remains in safe hands under the custody of Guinean authorities.
In a fiery rebuttal, Defense Counsels accused the prosecuting team of blatant disrespect for the court’s authority, calling for their immediate imprisonment.
They warned that failure to penalize the government lawyers would compel them to sue the Presiding judge, citing provisions of Liberia’s Criminal Procedure Law.
Presiding Judge Roosevelt Willie expressed dismay at the government lawyers’ disregard for the court’s order, describing their actions as “contemptuous.”
He emphasized that such conduct undermines the rule of law and warranted punishment.
“The act carried out by the government lawyers is contemptuous, which is punishable by fine or imprisonment,” Judge Willie said.
As a consequence, Judge Willie fined the entire prosecuting team $1,500, to be paid into government’s revenue within 72 hours.
This case has drawn significant public attention, with legal experts and civil society groups weighing in on the implications of prioritizing national security over judicial mandates.
The controversy continues as the defense team presses for stronger accountability measures.
Cherif’s extradition and the subsequent legal battle highlight ongoing tensions between the judiciary and the executive branches, raising critical questions.
about respect for judicial independence in Liberia.
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