Tweah Accuses VP Koung of Interfering in Court Case, Vows to Resist New Trial

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: Former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. has accused Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung of allegedly attempting to influence a court decision following Tweah’s acquittal by a jury, while declaring that he will not submit to another trial if the verdict is overturned.

In a strongly worded statement, Tweah alleged that Vice President Koung instructed Judge Ousmane Feika to overturn the acquittal on grounds of alleged jury misconduct. He claimed, however, that no evidence has been presented linking him or his lawyers to any such misconduct.

Tweah further alleged that the government has been divided for weeks over how to proceed with the case, claiming that some officials and members of the judiciary have warned against overturning the jury’s verdict.

According to Tweah, those opposed to such a move believe reversing the verdict could set a dangerous precedent for Liberia’s judiciary and create the perception that the government is selectively pursuing corruption cases.

Tweah also claimed that, based on information available to him, a final decision on the matter was communicated to Judge Feika last Thursday following discussions within the government. These allegations have not been independently verified.

The former Finance Minister said he is now awaiting the court’s ruling, insisting that the judge should uphold the jury’s decision and issue what he described as his “certificate of freedom.”

“As for me, the ruling tomorrow has no bearing since nine patriotic jurors have already delivered their verdict, declaring me a free man based on the evidence presented to them,” Tweah stated.

He recalled becoming emotional following the jury’s decision, saying he viewed the verdict as an act of courage by ordinary Liberians.

Tweah warned that he would not participate in what he described as another politically motivated trial if the acquittal is overturned.

“Judge Feika has only one option, and that is to issue my certificate of freedom tomorrow,” he declared. “If he refuses, I will submit to no bogus political trial in violation of my constitutional rights. I am a free man.”

Tweah also accused the government of attempting to undermine Liberia’s democratic and judicial institutions for political purposes, arguing that the country has moved beyond an era when political leaders could dictate the outcome of judicial proceedings.

“The law is bigger today than the whims of any President or Vice President,” he said.

He concluded by describing himself as a political target and declaring his readiness to confront any further legal or political action against him.

“I welcome this political fight. Bring it on!” Tweah stated.

The allegations made by Tweah against Vice President Koung, the government and members of the judiciary are his claims. No independent evidence supporting the alleged instructions to Judge Feika was presented in the statement. The Vice President and other officials accused by Tweah should be given an opportunity to respond.