Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

Liberia’s Justice Minister-designate, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, has refuted allegations of embezzling US$58,814.08 from his client, terming the accusations as mere blackmail.
Speaking to the New Dawn newspaper, Cllr. Kruah clarified that he never personally handled the cash received by the Civil Law Court and strongly denied any wrongdoing.
The case revolves around his representation of the Mano River Rehabilitation and Development Corporation (MARDCO) in a legal dispute. The corporation had sought proper accounting from Mr. Edmondo Trombetta, leading to the seizure and sale of Trombetta’s assets. Cllr. Kruah was to receive 20% of the recovered amount as per the agreement.
Contrary to allegations, Cllr. Kruah provided detailed financial reports, asserting that all funds from the sales were received through the Civil Law Court and signed for by the client. He emphasized that multiple receipts, including the client’s signatures, support his claims.
However, Mr. Edgar Sidey, the client, alleged that he only received US$21,788.33 out of the collected amount and accused Cllr. Kruah of withholding US$58,814.08. This accusation has been vehemently dismissed by Cllr. Kruah as an act of blackmail.
The Supreme Court’s Grievance and Ethics Committee (GEC) mandated Cllr. Kruah to provide a complete financial statement within 30 days, failing which he could face suspension from practicing law.
Both parties are at loggerheads, with contrasting figures and conflicting accounts of the financial transactions. The allegations continue to raise questions about transparency and accountability in legal proceedings in Liberia.
The unfolding drama raises concerns about the integrity of legal processes and the responsibilities of legal practitioners to their clients. As the matter unfolds, the public waits to see how the authorities will resolve this intricate legal dispute.
The controversy surrounding Cllr. Kruah echoes loudly in Liberia’s legal circles, highlighting the importance of upholding ethical standards in legal practice. The intensity of the allegations illustrates the need for transparency and accountability to maintain public trust in legal institutions.