Court Orders Arrest, Incarceration Of Jurors

MONROVIA-NOVEMBER 20, 2025: The pursuit of justice in the Capitol Building arson trial, one of Liberia’s most closely watched cases, faced another setback on Wednesday, November 19, as repeated juror absences forced Criminal Court “A” to issue contempt orders and mandate the incarceration of two prospective jurors at the Monrovia Central Prison.

The case, involving former House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and four co-defendants, continues to test both the nation’s legal framework and the moral conscience of the country, as the courts strive to conduct proceedings marked by fairness, honesty, and accountability.

Despite the challenges, the court succeeded on Wednesday in selecting four additional jurors, bringing the total to 11, following the earlier selection of seven on Tuesday.

The required number for a complete panel is 15, including 12 regular jurors and three alternates. The selection process has been marred by repeated delays.

Courtroom records show that six prospective jurors were removed by defense lawyers under preemptory basis, while prosecutors dismissed several others who admitted to having personal or professional connections with lawyers from either side or familiarity with some defendants, especially Representative Dixon Seboe, whom some prospective jurors said they knew from his residence in New Kru Town.

The Sheriff’s report revealed that five prospective jurors failed to appear on Wednesday, two of whom were absent for the second consecutive day, and three others did not show up at all.

Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie, expressing deep concern, ordered the two repeatedly absent jurors remanded to the Monrovia Central Prison for 14 days for contempt of court and demanded that the remaining three appear on Thursday to show cause why they should not face similar sanctions.

“With the panel still incomplete,” Judge Willie noted, “prospective jurors will be reassembled on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to ensure the completion of this important civic duty.”

The trial stems from the December 2024 arson attack on the Capitol Building, an incident that destroyed the joint chamber of the legislative.

The fire triggered widespread public debate, especially as it struck during a politically fragile period.

Former Speaker Koffa and his co-defendants are facing multiple felony charges, including arson, criminal conspiracy, criminal mischief, and economic sabotage for their alleged involvement.

While prosecutors alleged Koffa’s involvement, his supporters insist the case is politically driven and unsupported by solid evidence.

Former House Speaker Fonati Koffa and team of Lawyers at the high court in Liberia

Efforts to advance the case have been marked by tension, with defense lawyers filing challenges against the indictment’s legality and the neutrality of the prosecution.

The government has maintained that no individual, regardless of position, is above the law.

Judge Willie has continued to reassure the public that the court will operate without political interference.

As the nation watches closely, the slow progress of juror empanelment raises important questions about Liberia’s capacity to uphold the principles of justice, truth, and rule of law.

For a country grounded in faith, the smooth administration of justice is not only a legal expectation but a moral one.

As jury selection resumes Thursday, November 20, Liberians have been called to remain hopeful, prayerful, and committed to peace, and to trust that justice, guided by God’s wisdom