The NEWS (Monrovia)
Precious S. Seboe
26 May 2008
Monrovia — State prosecutors and defense lawyers took over three hours in trying to select jurors that would decide the facts in the trial of former officials of the transitional government charged with economic sabotage.
More than 25 persons were summoned to serve as jurors, but four were selected, thereby leaving the process wide open. Eleven persons are needed to complete the jury selection process.
During the screening process last Friday, 21 prospective jurors were rejected by state lawyers due to their inability to read and write figures.
As a consequence of slow start of the jury selection process, the Presiding Judge of the Criminal Court "C", Geevon Smith ordered the clerk to summon more persons to continue with the selection process today.
The Judge said when the court resumes today, lawyers from both side would be compelled to conclude the selection of the jury.
Former officials of the transitional government charged with economic sabotage and theft are alleged to have embezzled public funds including over US$900,000 from the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC).
The officials include former Minister of Finance Lusinee F. Kamara, his deputy Tugbeh N. Doe, Pyne Wollo, Albert E.N. Quaye, and former Chairman of the Transitional Legislative Committee on Ways, Means and Finance, Tapple Doe.
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