Liberia: Key Witnesses Fail to Appear in Unity Party Election Victory Jubilation 'Attack' Trial

Monrovia — The trial of Lawrence K. Williams has stalled. He is accused of a violent attack on Unity Party supporters after the 2023 presidential runoff. Judicial sources confirm that key state witnesses have not appeared.

A state prosecutor, who wished to remain anonymous, spoke to The Liberian Investigator. They said the absence of witnesses is severely hindering the trial's progress. Williams allegedly drove into a crowd celebrating President Joseph N. Boakai's victory on November 19, 2023.

Williams was indicted in February 2024 on three charges: murder, attempted murder, and aggravated assault. Nearly five court terms have passed since his indictment, but the case has not gone to trial. Prosecutors blame this delay on witnesses failing to show up.

According to Article 21(h) of the 1986 Constitution, arrested individuals must be charged within 48 hours. If a prima facie case exists, they should receive a speedy trial. Preventive detention is not allowed.

Chapter 18.2 of the Criminal Procedure Law states that an indictment must be dismissed if not tried in the following term. Complaints for offenses triable by magistrates must proceed within 15 days of arrest or initial appearance.

The Charges
Williams faces multiple violations of the Liberian Penal Code: Title 26, Sections 1.7(c), 1.7(d), and others. The most serious allegation involves events from November 20, 2023. Williams reportedly used a grey Hyundai SUV as a weapon during the attack.

Police reports claim he parked near Unity Party headquarters and waited before accelerating into the crowd for nearly half an hour. This incident injured 29 people who were later treated at John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital.

The indictment states that Williams' actions caused permanent injuries and loss of bodily functions for several victims. The aggravated assault charge stems from claims he intentionally inflicted serious harm using his vehicle.

Attempted Murder Allegation
The indictment also accuses Williams of attempting murder through deliberate planning and execution of his actions. Prosecutors argue that his behavior shows intent to kill and constitutes a "substantial step" toward committing murder.

"Factual or legal impossibility is not a defense," reads part of the indictment. It asserts that if circumstances allowed for committing the offense as believed by Williams, then it remains punishable.

Delay Raises Constitutional Questions
Legal experts suggest that continued delays could lead to dismissal of the case. A local analyst noted that logistical issues should not override constitutional rights to a speedy trial.

Williams has yet to present any affirmative defense in court. The indictment concludes that his actions were "contrary to the peace and dignity" of Liberia.

A Pattern of Delays?
The stalled case against Williams resembles another unresolved investigation involving police officer Amanda Nebo's murder earlier in 2024. That case also remains pending due to absent witnesses.