-Prosecution To Present Rebuttal Witnesses
State prosecutors in the ongoing economic sabotage case, centered on more than L$1 billion and over US$500,000, have notified Criminal Court ‘C’ Judge Ousman F. Feika of their plan to call rebuttal witnesses.
The move is intended to challenge key portions of testimony given by former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah.
Now in its 63rd day at Criminal Court ‘C’ at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia, the trial stems from charges brought by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
Several former senior government officials face allegations including economic sabotage, money laundering, theft, and criminal conspiracy.
Prosecution Signals Pushback
During Monday’s proceedings, prosecutors repeatedly indicated they would counter aspects of Tweah’s testimony as he defended his interpretation of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Law and decisions made during his tenure.
Throughout cross-examination, the prosecution flagged specific claims, especially those concerning spending beyond approved budgets-that they intend to dispute through rebuttal evidence.
“Prosecution gives notice to produce rebuttal witness,” court records noted.
This signals the state’s effort to undermine the defense’s position that the disputed transactions were lawful or justified under emergency or national security grounds.
Tweah, continuing under cross-examination, maintained that the case lacks substance and is not supported by solid evidence.
“The prosecution’s case is built on assumptions and speculation, as demonstrated in this court,” he argued.
He also faulted the LACC’s investigation, claiming it failed to fully trace the movement of funds.
A major point of contention remains whether funds tied to national security operations were properly authorized and documented.
When prosecutors raised issues under the National Security Reform Act, the defense objected, arguing the document spoke for itself. The court upheld the objection.
“Objection sustained. So ordered,” the judge ruled.
Prosecutors said they plan to revisit the issue through rebuttal witnesses.
Questions on Legal Authority
Tweah insisted that all actions taken while in office complied with legal requirements and received proper authorization.
“The approvals in question were lawful and backed by the National Security Council-nothing was circumvented,” he testified.
He also cited provisions of the PFM Law, stating that it allows the Finance Minister to exceed budget limits during national emergencies.
“Exceeding the budget under such circumstances is not unlawful,” he said.
On whether such expenditures were reported to the Legislature, Tweah explained that the law requires disclosure at the end of the fiscal year through detailed reporting.
Procurement Concerns Raised
Prosecutors further questioned the absence of competitive procurement processes in some transactions, including those during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tweah acknowledged that standard procurement procedures were not followed, explaining that both the government and its international partners agreed to assign responsibility to the World Food Programme (WFP).
Jury Seeks Clarification
Jurors asked questions regarding Tweah’s duties and oversight responsibilities.
“My role was to ensure that public funds were managed in line with the PFM Law,” he responded.
He also revealed that he did not participate in any LACC investigation prior to being indicted.
“I did not appear before the LACC, nor did I review the emails until after my indictment,” he said.
Personal Impact Emphasized
In a moment of strong emotion, Tweah spoke about the personal toll of the case.
“I will continue to defend my reputation and my innocence. If I did not commit a crime, I should not be punished,” he stated.
Another jury question the Tweah inone of testimony, "you said that the NJS money is shared at the CBL. so I want to know if the CBL is a member of the NJS?
He said was that National Security People go to the CBL to receive their money. You remember the cheque of US$180,000.00 involving the lacc. That cheque was written in the name of one of Yekeh who works for the LACC. He went to the CBL and got the US$180,000.00 in cash.
Trial Adjourned
Proceedings were adjourned due to technical difficulties, with the court ordering the trial to resume on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
As the prosecution prepares to introduce rebuttal witnesses, the trial is expected to intensify its focus on financial oversight, legal authority, and the tension between national security considerations and public accountability.
