FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AREPT Is Not Deterred, Remains Resolute Despite Intentional Legal Delays
The Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) wishes to state unequivocally that it is not deterred by the recent legal developments arising from the MDMC/MOFA criminal case and remains fully resolute in ensuring that all persons indicted are held to account, despite procedural delays occasioned by ongoing court processes.
AREPT has taken note of the action of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Justice in Chambers, Her Honor Jamesetta Howard Wolokolie, following a petition for a writ of prohibition filed by defendants in the MDMC/MOFA matter. The petition relates to a criminal case involving allegations of theft of public property and criminal facilitation linked to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs renovation contract. As a result of this petition, a stay order has been issued in the MDMC/MOFA case pending further judicial proceedings.
The Taskforce emphasizes that the action taken by the Chamber Justice is procedural in nature and does not constitute relief, dismissal, or vindication for those indicted or under investigation. AREPT clarifies to the Liberian public that legal delays arising from applications before the courts do not erase criminal responsibility nor terminate prosecution.
AREPT reaffirms that it will proceed strictly in accordance with the law and the orders of the Court, while maintaining its institutional independence and mandate. The Taskforce stresses that no individual or corporate entity is above the law, and that accountability for corruption remains a national obligation.
The Taskforce further states that the court’s intervention should not be misinterpreted as a setback to the fight against corruption. On the contrary, AREPT welcomes the judicial process and will respond consistently with the controlling law, confident that justice will ultimately prevail.
AREPT remains steadfast and resolute in its commitment to trace, identify, and recover stolen public assets and to prosecute all those involved, without fear or favor, and in the best interest of the Liberian people. There is no turning back. Despite intentional delays, all stolen public assets will be retrieved.
The Taskforce further calls on the Liberian public, civil society, and the media to continue exposing acts of corruption and providing credible information that will aid ongoing investigations. AREPT remains resolute in this fight against corruption and encourages citizens to stand firm in support of accountability and justice.
Signed:
Joseph F. Daniels
Public Relations Officer
