The Public Interest Law Advocacy Center (PILAC), a prominent legal advocacy group in Liberia, has taken a bold step by filing a writ of prohibition with the Supreme Court of Liberia.
This move comes as PILAC challenges the decision made by the Government of Liberia (GOL) to arrest and deport Mohammed Yaetey Turay, the former Superintendent of Police from Sierra Leone, without adhering to due process.
In its petition, PILAC contends that Turay’s sudden arrest and deportation, allegedly related to an attempted coup plot, were carried out without proper legal proceedings. PILAC, a body of legal professionals advocating for community rights and good governance, aims to protect public interests and uphold the rule of law. Alieu Kaidii is leading PILAC as its Director.
The respondents in this case include key figures from the Liberian Ministry of Justice, the National Police, and the Independent Human Rights Commission of Liberia (IHRCL).
PILAC argues that the Liberian government’s actions constitute a breach of constitutional and statutory obligations. The legal team highlights that Turay, as a Sierra Leonean national residing in Liberia, is entitled to due process under both domestic and international law.
Turay’s rights, as specified under Chapter 8 of the Criminal Procedural Law, have allegedly been violated by the Liberian government. Chapter 8 outlines provisions related to extradition arrangements and political offenses.
PILAC’s petition further requests that the Liberian government refrains from extraditing Turay to Sierra Leone until he is granted proper due process within the Liberian legal system. The organization asserts that this action aligns with both the Liberian Constitution and international agreements.
Despite reports of Turay’s extradition, PILAC claims that his current location remains unknown. The advocacy group raises concerns about potential violations of Turay’s human rights, citing international laws and conventions that safeguard individuals from torture and cruel treatment.
The Supreme Court of Liberia is now tasked with examining this complex case, which carries implications for both national and international legal standards. As PILAC seeks to ensure fairness and justice, the outcome of this legal battle will be closely watched by legal experts and human rights advocates in Liberia and beyond.
