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The Best Home Workout Items For Older Folks, According To A Physical Therapist

It can be difficult to stay on track with exercise in general. For older folks with mobility issues and age-related concerns, incorporating physical activity can be that much tougher. A solid at-home fitness routine can help make workouts accessible and comfortable, regardless of your personal circumstances.

We spoke with physical therapist Chris DeRosa to get his recommendations for the best home workout items for older people. DeRosa co-owns Davis and DeRosa Physical Therapy in Los Angeles and specializes in outpatient orthopedics.

"Workout gear is tough as there are a lot of products on the market and [depending on finances] some are more favorable than others," DeRosa noted. Luckily, he recommended some effective home fitness products ranging from under $20 to more splurge-worthy options.

And, if you live near a park or a community pool, they are worth an outing, according to DeRosa. "Local parks and rec… sometimes have great senior programs that also allow [older people] to have more interaction with people, which is very important," DeRosa said. He also recommended water aerobics: It's "less stressful on joints and again you are in a group setting making it a great social event," he explained.

Read on for DeRosa's top picks for home workouts below.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.

A set of resistance bands with handles

"Our number one choice is usually resistance bands with handles," Chris DeRosa, a physical therapist and co-owner of Davis and DeRosa Physical Therapy in Los Angeles explained to HuffPost. "They are cost effective and come in varied resistance so people can use lighter or stronger bands if they feel the exercises [are] too easy or too hard."

DeRosa recommended this five-pack of bands to start off with.

"Routines with the bands can be used to build upper body strength and lower body strength and of course should never be painful when performing," he said. "We always like to incorporate functional exercises, like sit to stand from a chair or bed and supported step ups as these are weight-bearing exercises that not only build strength but also help increase bone density [since] our bone density decreases as we age."

A pair of ankle weights

"Adjustable ankle weights are great for doing upper and lower body exercises and allow you to increase or decrease resistance as needed," DeRosa explained.

DeRosa recommended this pair of ankle weights, which are each adjustable from one to five pounds. They also have adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit. They're available in multiple colors and with higher weight offerings.

An under-desk elliptical machine

"[The] Cubii elliptical machine is a great way to increase lower body strength, ROM [an exercise technique to improve joint flexibility and mobility] and build some cardiovascular endurance," DeRosa wrote.

The Cubii elliptical, which DeRosa specifically recommended, is compact, portable and offers adjustable peddling resistance. It fits easily under couches, arm chairs and desk chairs so you can enjoy a low-impact workout while sitting at home. It also has Bluetooth connectivity and an app that tracks your strides, time and more.

Short balance activities, like the ones in this training book

"Falls are one of the most common way seniors injure themselves. Incorporating safe balance training to a program is essential," said DeRosa. He recommended this book to get started, and also noted that many older folks enjoy chair yoga to improve balance and overall strength.

Looking for more equipment to help you work out at home? Shopping writer Lourdes Avila Uribe is pleased to report that pretty much all of her workout gear fits into a small basket. Shop her picks ahead:

Gaiam yoga mat

Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5

Sometimes all you need is a fresh new yoga mat to reinvigorate a workout routine. This lovely option from Gaiam is nice and thick with non-slip padding to keep your joints safe and comfortable. It's available in 40 different color and pattern options.

Promising review: "Bought new mat for yoga class. I order one not realizing how amazing the design is. I LOVE it. It's stable, durable and comfortable. Added bonus was the design. Completely in love with it." — Maureen McGuire

A set of resistance bands

Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I swear by my resistance band set. These versatile rubber strips are great for everything from stretching to strength training. This set of five comes with various resistance levels and its own carry bag so you can tuck it away with ease. It's also great for traveling.

Promising review: "I love the feeling I have after a workout, but I hate going to the gym and I can't afford serious equipment to exercise at home. These are something small, easy, and affordable that you can start with. I love that they're small enough to keep anywhere, so I keep them in a drawer in my living room. Sometimes I will take one out and do a few reps while I watch tv." — J. Mathews

Pilates bar and bands kit

Amazon rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Available at varying weights, this pilates stick features a steel rod with sweat-proof, anti-slip foam that is soft and comfy. It also includes two kinds of bands with varying levels of resistance. It's definitely smaller than having a reformer machine in your home.

Promising review: "Love this pilates bar! Reasonably priced and useful for a variety of exercises that you can find on the instructions sheet that comes with it. Plenty of exercises can also be found online. I love that I can increase or decrease the weight. I bought the 40 and 50 lb version, and I am still learning different ways to use this bar and that is the fun part! Looking forward to learning and using different exercises for different muscle groups. Great for if you work from home. A lot of the exercises imitate some that are done at the gym, so I feel like I am getting a hard enough work-out; but not over - kill, which is perfect for reaching my at home fitness goals! I do the exercises alone or while following along with individuals online. At first, it takes a bit of effort to find all the exercises that you want to learn and do, and re-arranging the parts to accommodate each exercise takes a bit of learning, but the instructions and online tutorials make it easy and less of a headache. Overall --- a fun and useful exercise choice!" — Amazonlady

Bala bangles

Amazon rating: 4.1 out of 5

These wrist and ankle weights are an easy way to add a bit of resistance to everything from your daily walk to an at-home yoga or pilates class. They're available in seven different fun colors and come in one or two-pound options.

Promising review: "Love love love these. I got these to wear during my Barre class. They are the perfect amount of weight, easy to store because they come with their own little bag. I wear these walking as well and they are very comfortable. Can be worn on ankles or wrists." — Julia Hammermeister

An under-the-desk walking pad

Amazon rating: 3.9 out of 5

If you've got a standing desk or a countertop that you use for your work-from-home setup, then consider popping a walking pad underneath. It's the easiest way to get your steps in without leaving the comfort of home. The slim Walking Pad folds in half and comes with wheels, making storage a breeze. It comes with a remote control, and you can also connect to it via app. It goes up to about 3.7 miles per hour and has two modes: automatic, which allows you to control how fast the belt goes using your feet and your own walking speed, or manual, through which you can set your walking speed using the remote.

Promising review: "Surprisingly happy with this. I wasn't expecting to use or like this treadmill as much as I do. It actually looks good in my office, and I've been using it regularly. It's much easier to use while working than I expected (I don't use it on calls because of the noise) - perfect for heads down time. It has helped my back a ton. It's not fancy, and the app is pretty confusing to set up, but once I got the hang of it I was on cruise control. I also appreciate that it links up with Apple Health so I can see all my steps in one place. Overall super happy with the purchase and it's already paid for itself if you compare it to a gym membership. Pro-trip - unfold it at night before bed and you'll be way more likely to walk first thing in the morning instead of sitting down at your desk and getting lost in the work." — Allison Winston

JumpSport 350/370 Pro mini trampoline

Amazon rating: 4.8 out of 5

Okay, before you tell me that this isn't good for small spaces, hear me out! I've had a mini trampoline in various tiny apartments for years and it's my absolute favorite way to get some low-impact cardio in. You can unscrew the legs and tuck it under the bed, prop it up against the wall or slide it into the back of a roomy closet. It's so much fun and such a great low-impact workout that it's worth the slight hassle.

Promising review: "I've had my JumpSport for a month and couldn't be happier with my purchase! I researched rebounders in depth before choosing this model - it's solid, stable, and makes no noise when I use it. I have never enjoyed cardio workouts but this is very fun and I have been using it consistently since I received it, which says a lot! Another big benefit for me is my lymph nodes have stopped swelling painfully about a week after I started using it. I have no medical experience but having read about the benefits of rebounding I believe this fixed my issue of 2.5 months (I had already been checked by my doc). It's also easy to move yet feels 100% stable. I love this rebounder and highly recommend it - it's worth the money for the health benefits, not to mention the fun!" — Becca

Mini stair stepper with resistance bands

Amazon rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

This small but mighty stair stepper provides a full-body workout. It comes with removable training bands and is a great way to get low-impact cardio into your day. It has sturdy, non-slip foot pads and a hydraulic drive system that ensures a smooth stepping motion.

Promising review: "So many pros about this product. To begin with, the product came well packaged and secure. Second, the product was already put together. No screws, tools, or assistance were needed! The only thing I had to do was hook the resistance bands onto the stepper. It also came with an extra battery. I used it for the first time, two days after purchasing it, and it's a great home-gym piece of equipment. The stepper is easy to carry around, store, and use. On the days I'm unable to make it to the gym, I can use this and it's resistance bands for a full workout. So far, it's been a great item, for great price, and great purchase! I'd recommend." — Paige

Perfect Pushup handles

Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

The Perfect Pushup isn't just for '90s dads, it's a great way to work the upper body and more. The handle helps to reduce joint strain and keeps your muscles engaged so you can build strength and definition in your arms, shoulders, chest, back, abs and more.

Promising review: "Very comfortable. Easy to assemble, clean, and use. Relief from plain push-up stands. Healthy, full motion push-ups." — Krueger

A high-tech jump rope

Amazon rating: 4.4 out of 5

Keep things simple with an old-fashioned jump rope with a twist. It has an LED display that includes a timer, weight, calories and circles. It can precisely count time and display all your stats. It doesn't get much more low-profile than this!

Promising review: "I've always loved jump rope for exercise and with cold and flu season in full effect, I wanted to burn calories at home instead of picking up germs from the gym. This jump rope is a super simple and basic piece of fitness equipment that is pretty much a must-have for anybody with a home gym. It's also great for beginners and more advanced fitness levels and it's Just a fun way to train! Jumping rope Burns a lot of calories and I love that this rope can go with you anywhere, it is super portable and doesn't take up a lot of storage space. This jump rope has ergonomic Handles that are nice hold and I like the lcd screen that tracks my workout stats. The screen shows Timer, Weight, Calories burned and Circles. I can set my weight for more accurate measurements and calories burned. Love it!" — Anna J.

Peleton stationary bicycle

Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5

Like the mini trampoline, the cult-fave Peleton bike is also a surprisingly great option for small spaces. It has a compact 4' x 2' footprint, an adjustable seat, handlebar and a screen that can tilt to accommodate all heights. It's definitely a splurge, but you won't need much more equipment other than this beauty.

Promising review: "I have been a cyclist in the past so was excited about getting a Peloton and knew I would enjoy it, but it is far better than I expected. The bike is exceptionally well built. It is sturdy and comfortable to ride. The classes are so well done and very motivating. The bike has all the tech for you to know everything about your ride and your metrics. I've ridden it every day since I got it. I'm hooked!" — R. Gunn

Amazon Basics Neoprene dumbbells set

Amazon rating: 4.8 out of 5

Available in sets of two, three and five pounds or three, five and eight pounds, these dumbbells are all you need to get your upper body nice and strong. Each set comes with an easy-to-assemble storage stand so you can just pop them in a corner or closet without worrying about taking up a large footprint or dealing with a mess.

Promising review: "Highly recommend. This set is perfect if you want multiple weights and you don't want them cluttering your floor. The holder was easy to put together and so far it's sturdier than you would think plastic could be." — Flap and Bnix

A door anchor strap for resistance bands

Amazon rating: 4.3 out of 5

This strong and sturdy door strap is the perfect complement to a resistance band workout regime. It features five anchors at different heights that can accommodate different exercises ad people of all heights. This option is a 14-piece set that includes multiple bands.

Promising review: "I am obsessed with this product. I feel like I don't even need the weight set I ordered now. The strap is good quality and fastens securely around the door. I like that the anchors give you options for both strap and metal loop connections. I love that it comes with both handles and Velcro ankle wrap connections. It is truly a versatile product. I am already benefiting a lot from using it… with increasing muscle mass, flexibility, and decreased pain in my joints. Will recommend to all my friends. Thank you!" — Christina Gonzales

An under-desk elliptical

Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5

If you're more of a cyclist than a walker but don't want to invest in or take up a ton of living space with a Peleton, this under-the-desk elliptical is just what you need. It's ergonomic, compact and enables you to get your workout or PT in while sitting comfortably.

Promising review: "I don't like admitting I'm sedentary person, but it is what it is. I have a heart condition which means low energy and swelling in my feet and legs. What energy I have during the day goes to taking care of my house and yard, not very aerobic. I realize that if I'd become more active I would likely have more energy as it would make my heart stronger. On a whim, I splurged on the Cubii Jr. It was super easy to put together, very well constructed and super smooth and quiet to use. And I am using it! Wow. Right away I noticed a difference in the edema in my feet and legs. It is so easy to use that my goal is to use it a little more each day. I'm up to 3 with 2500-3000 "steps" per day. Hey, Rome wasn't built in a day either! I saw my cardiologist yesterday. She's familiar with the machine and gave it a thumbs up. I think it would be an excellent starting point for anyone who is exercise shy and a device that you'd continue to use even if you become more active. It's just so easy to use while checking email, shopping on Amazon, etc, etc. Sometimes I even forget that I'm using it. I'm 79, so don't let age stop you!" — K.D.

An Ab Roller wheel kit

Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5

This durable, quiet and eternally popular ab roller is a great way to build core strength. It's made with stainless steel, foam-padded handles and a non-slip design so you stay comfortable and safe while stretching your endurance. This set includes two resistance bands, two knee pads, two push-up bar handles, grips and an exercise guide.

Promising review: "This set has a lot in it for a pretty good price. The ab roller can be used in conjunction with the resistance bands to assist beginners that may not be strong enough to use the ab roller by itself. You can definitely perform multiple different exercises with each piece." — Amazon customer

A tube bands set

Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5

This kit includes five different tube bands, one that provides 10 pounds of resistance, another with 20 pounds, then 30 pounds, 40 pounds and 50 pounds. They're really versatile and great for toning arms, shoulders, chest, glutes, legs and more.

Promising review: "I bought these bands to do physical therapy exercises and they work great! The handles are comfortable and the bands have great elasticity with resistance. All bands are labeled with weights and the clips make changing the attachments easy. They come stored in a drawstring bag for easy storage." — DR

Sportneer adjustable ankle weights

Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5I love these adjustable and versatile ankle weights and use them for everything from pilates to power walking, and even for a bit of resistance while on the trampoline. Available in five different colors, they can be customized to weigh one pound each or all the way up to five pounds each, making them a great investment if you want an option that can be adjusted for the kind of exercise you're doing.

Promising review: "Comfortable. These ankle weights are great you just Velcro them on your legs there's no sharp edges. They're soft everywhere easy on and easy off very good I would buy them again." — Brenda

Vinyl coated kettlebells

Amazon rating: 4.8 out of 5

Made with solid cast iron and a durable vinyl finish, these kettlebells will last a long, long time, making them a great investment. They have a flat bottom for stability and can be used for all kinds of strength-building exercises. They're available in five pound increments from 5-50 pounds.

Promising review: "When searching for a kettlebell, I went with this more affordable option and so happy I did! It was more affordable than competitors but very nice quality!" — Amanda Peterson

Read India News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, one of the world's most powerful political leaders, will celebrate his birthday on September 17, 2024. His rise from humble origins to become India's Prime Minister is a narrative of tenacity, hard work, and exceptional leadership. As Modi approaches another year of age, it is an appropriate time to reflect on his fascinating political career and the important milestones that have moulded his leadership. PM Modi Birthday 2024: Humble Beginnings Narendra Modi was born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, a tiny village in Gujarat. His early life was distinguished by impoverished conditions, since his family ran a tea stall. As a child, Modi assisted his father in selling tea at a local train station, which he has frequently mentioned in speeches to connect with the average man. Modi showed an early desire to serve his country and its people. He joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a pracharak (campaigner) in his teens, laying the groundwork for his future political career. The RSS, a Hindu nationalist movement, influenced Modi's ideology and approach to governing. The RSS taught him discipline, leadership, and a deep sense of nationalism, all of which would influence his later political path. PM Modi Birthday 2024: Rise in Gujarat Politics Modi first entered mainstream politics in 1987, when he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He soon ascended through the ranks, becoming the party's main organiser and strategist. His attempts to strengthen the BJP's position in Gujarat and other states gained him respect inside the party. Modi's organisational skills and ability to interact with grassroots people made him a respected leader. Modi's political career took a decisive turn in 2001 when he was appointed Chief Minister of Gujarat. This was a difficult period for the state, which had recently suffered a severe earthquake. Modi's leadership during the recovery efforts, as well as his emphasis on economic development, transformed Gujarat into a shining example of success. His administration prioritised infrastructural development and industrial expansion, and improving the ease of doing business in the state. Modi's tenure as Chief Minister lasted for over 12 years, during which Gujarat's economy grew significantly. PM Modi Birthday 2024: Becoming the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi's achievement as Gujarat's Chief Minister propelled him to national prominence. In 2014, Modi was chosen as the BJP's Prime Minister candidate, and his campaign centred on economic reform, good administration, and a vision of "Achhe Din" (better days) for all Indians. In the 2014 general elections, the BJP won a historic win, and Modi became India's 14th Prime Minister. As Prime Minister, Modi has launched a number of programs aimed at modernising India and boosting its worldwide stature. His government introduced initiatives such as "Swachh Bharat" (Clean India), "Make in India," and "Digital India," all of which aimed to promote cleanliness, manufacturing, and technological innovation. Modi emphasises economic growth, infrastructure, and foreign policy has earned him both praise and criticism, but his influence on Indian politics is undeniable.

16 September,2024 10:49 PM ISTMumbaimid-day online correspondent

Liberians Embrace WECC - Are The Big Elephants In The Room On Board?

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the resource mismanagement and warlords rule in post-civil war Liberia, detailing how political elites and armed factions exploited national resources for personal gains during and after the conflict, leading to over 250,000 deaths and unprecedented suffering.

Despite the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 2005 to address human rights violations, subsequent governments have largely disregarded recommendations for accountability, including the demand for a War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC). Advocates for the WECC, including international representatives and local leaders, emphasize the need for justice and closure for war victims, yet patronage cultural and the political landscape remains resistant due to the influence of former warlords, the political elites and multiple actors amid ongoing corruption scandals within government ranks.

While many Liberians support the establishment of the WECC, fearing instability and economic burdens complicate its realization, thus undermining public engagement efforts aimed at raising awareness about the court's purpose, which includes promoting victims participation in the transitional justice process, aiding community healing and rebuilding, striving for a society founded on justice and accountability and ultimately working towards genuine reconciliation and sustainable peace.

Fifteen years after the TRC report was published in 2009, and more than 20 years after the war, President Joseph Boakai has finally signed an Executive order to establish Liberia's first War & Economic Crimes Court. The prolong gap in implementing one of the TRC's key recommendations has understandably created misperceptions and confusion in the minds of the public about the WECC. Worth noting is the fact that the TRC and the War and Economic Crimes Court are not mutually exclusive but 'two pathways to the pursuit of truth telling and criminal accountability'.

National Resource Mismagement & Warlords rule

This year, Liberia celebrates twenty-one years of 'Negative Peace,' since the Accra CPA was signed in 2003. In peacebuilding jargon, 'Negative Peace' is primarily the absence of war and armed conflict. Indeed, by this standard, Liberia is 'peaceful' but falls short of 'Positive Peace', which in contrast is the absence of structural, cultural, or physical violence. The situation in post conflict Liberia is replete with structural, cultural and physical violence underscoring why Liberia is still considered a fragile state, despite celebrating twenty-one years of relative peace. Without Justice, there can be no 'Positive Peace" because justice and 'Positive Peace' are intrinsically intertwined.

Transitional Justice mechanisms, including the War Economic Crime Court (WECC), are usually not created in the vacuum but to address different forms of crimes, including human rights violations, injustices, economic exploitation, natural resource pillage, etc. While the establishment of WECC is one of the best solutions to aid Liberia achieve sustainable peace, the lack of political will by successive leaderships and failure to tackle structural violence, leave the country on the wrong trajectory. Incessantly, perpetrators of outrageous crimes continue to oppose and resist the establishment of WECC because the establishing of such a transitional justice mechanism will not only end the culture of impunity they enjoy but will disrupt their socio-economic status, undermine illegal wealth accumulation as well as their unorthodox ascendency and preservation of higher political offices.

The attitude of former warlords and the political elites cause Liberians to continuously cope with various forms of injustices, psychological trauma and war amnesia. Consequently, people are left without option but to internalise their pains, thus increasing the possibility of the country relapsing into conflict. Mitigating the potential to relapse to conflict or 'Conflict trap' requires addressing the things that affected people during the wars while also improving the relationships, structures and behaviours that act as barriers to justice and long-term peace. Indeed, the TRC, as part of Liberia's transitional mechanism, was created as a Platform to enable victims and perpetrators of war atrocities to speak out to bring closure to their bitter memories, discuss and document what went wrong and recommend measures to promote reconciliation, prevent the recurrence of conflict and achieve 'Positive Peace'. Accordingly, extensive public hearings were conducted both in Liberia and in the diaspora with adequate documentation compiled on the conflict. However, thirteen years after the TRC report was released, the TRC's recommendations regarding the establishment of a WECC was not implemented.

Meanwhile, criminal accountability for civil wars atrocities is critical for the restoration of 'Positive Peace' and stability in Liberia. On several occasions, individuals, families, victims of wars atrocities, right groups and activists have called for accountability through the implementation of the TRC's findings. But the apparent lack of political will on the part of successive leaderships due to political expediency has made this impossible. Criminal and economic accountability for pre and post war violence is critical for the restoration of peace and trust in state institutions. Accountability is indispensable for lasting peace underscoring why Liberians have consistently demanded for the creation of a war crimes court. For example, in April 2019, the Liberian Bar Association supported the establishment of WECC. The Traditional Chiefs Council during the National Economic Dialogue, a conference which was attended by Liberians from diverse backgrounds, including government representatives, political parties, youth, and civil society - backed the establishment of a WECC in September 2019. In addition, more than 50 members of the House of Representatives endorsed a resolution backing the setting up of WECC for Liberia. While there seems to be vast support among Liberians for the establishment of WECC, some of the 'Big Elephants' constantly try to counter such a noble cause using 'patronage culture' and mis and dis information.

It is no secret that during the wars, the resources of Liberia were traded and exploited by armed bands and political elites to sustain their statues and perpetrate the carnage that caused the death of appropriately 250,000 people. At that time, pillage served as a form of enrichment to the victor, a form of payment to mercenaries, and a form of enforcement of punishment or reprisal[1]. Indeed, Liberian factional leaders and elites exploited the crisis to get rich by strengthening their positions in future political configuration and tried to insulate themselves from any punishment. The actions and inactions of various actors were deliberate because not doing so would eventually put them and their followers off the grid of political power and wealth, which will ultimately undermine their capacity to accumulate wealth and live in opulence. Hence, belligerent groups exploited the war economy by clandestinely engaging in illegal extraction, taxation, and export of Liberia's natural resources, particularly timber, rubber, diamonds, gold etc to enrich themselves. These transactions were not done exclusively by domestic actors but included the participation of regional and international partners.

The exploitative role of transnational entities in pillaging Liberia's resources has been characterised as "dictatorship of the multinational corporations."[2] On the one hand, there is the exploiting class, which consists of the owners of the multinational corporations and their office allies in the state bureaucracy, while on the other hand, the exploited classes, which consist of the workers, farmers and masses of poor people. As seen from several high profile corruption scandals, including the Global Witness bombshell case involving several of governmental functionaries during Madam Sirleaf's administration, the multinational corporations and their office allies in the state bureaucracy are the principal elements of the contradiction while the poor masses are the secondary element of the contradiction.

With the cessation of hostilities among the warring factions, negotiations to end the second civil conflict took place in Accra, Ghana in 2003. With this development, Liberians from all backgrounds, including members of Liberian civil society gathered to advocate for the establishment of a WECC to bring to justice alleged perpetrators of crimes. Eventually, Liberia's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was created in 2005 to investigate gross human rights violations during the civil crisis and report findings and recommendations. Amongst others, the TRC's report recommended the establishment of an Extraordinary Criminal Court (ECC), which would be a hybrid court composed of national and international judges, prosecutors, and other staff, for the prosecution of former leaders of warring factions and others.

Sirleaf and Weah paid death ears to WECC

Unfortunately, former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and President George Weah did little to heed the recommendations from the report to put to rest the mounting outcry for justice from the public, especially from victims of the wars. For more than two decades, Liberians have been advocating for the end to the culture of impunity by calling for the establishment of War and Economy Crimes Court (WECC). The TRC recommended a process through which the perpetrators of human right abuses, violence and war victims should come together to speak on ways to find lasting peace. In his speech at the 7th Anniversary of ECOWAS Human Rights Day in Monrovia, the former Ecowas Ambassador to Liberia, Ambassador Babatunde O. Ajisomo, lamented that for sustainable peace, social cohesion and reconciliation to be achieved in Liberia, it is important that actors in the country address the issue of war crimes and other human rights violations.[3] The Ambassador's comments highlight and reflect the importance of addressing the TRC findings, specially the establishment of the WECC.

But on the contrary, not a single war crime trial has occurred in Liberia as part of the country's judicial process, despite the fact that extensive public hearings were conducted both in Liberia and in the diaspora and adequate documentation compiled on the issues of war and economic crimes. The only steps toward criminal accountability have been cases prosecuted abroad: namely, US federal conviction of Charles Chuckie Taylor, Jr. For torture committed in Liberia, convictions for crimes committed during Liberia's first civil war by former rebel commanders Alieu Kosiah, in Switzerland, and Kunti Kamara, in France, and a pending case in Belgium. The reluctance by various political leaderships in Liberia to prioritize the findings of the TRC undermines Liberia's quest for criminal and economic accountability, social cohesion and genuine post-conflict reconciliation.

National and International efforts for WECC

Advocacy for the establishment of the WECC has been championed mostly by international partners with some Liberian actors. For instance, on May 06, 2024[4], the U.S. Congressman Chris Smith, Chair of the House Sub Committee on Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations, issued a Press release regarding the need to establish a War Crimes & Economic Crimes Court in Liberia to help address the wounds of the country's civil wars. He noted that "in recent decades, Liberia's people have suffered untold human rights violations and economic crimes while perpetrators acted with near-complete impunity during the country's multiple civil wars. Echoing the need to establish a WECC, Liberia former Finance Minister and current Gbapolu County Senator, Amara Konneh said "I, as much as any Liberian, want justice for the murdered. I support a special court for war and economic crimes in Liberia. I also recognise that, until today, I had to find closure for myself - and for the community that suffered this devastation with me."[5] Similarly, Sonya, a victim of the 1990 Lutheran Church massacre said "I support the court 100 percent. I have been campaigning for this court since the time of the TRC. We need the court to address impunity and for people to pay for their crimes, so they need to establish the court now."[6] Another victim, Suzana Vaye, a widow who was profiled in the Liberian Daily Observer said: "The TRC is not enough; I want the war crimes court to be established here to hold perpetrators who inflicted pains on us accountable for what they did. We do not want recurrence of what happened in this country."[7] Adding their supports to the call for the establishment of WECC, majority of Liberia's 29 Senators, including Prince Y. Johnson, on April 9, 2024, approved the creation of a War and Economic Crimes Court. In declaring the outcome of the Senate resolution, the Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Senator Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, said there must be justice and accountability for both the victims of the wars and the perpetrators- adding that the establishment of the court is a necessary and critical step for a formal closure of the terrible memories left behind as well as a way of protecting the peace and encouraging the peoples' confidence in the rule of law and the administration of justice in our country.[8]

Meanwhile, prior to the Senate's action, the House of Representative passed a resolution for the establishment of WECC. The Speaker of the House, Jonathan Fonati Koffa, announcing the results of the votes said, "the resolution has been passed, and justice for the Liberian people has finally arrived."[9] Adding his voice to other voices, President Joseph Boakai reminded Liberians that for peace and harmony to have a chance to prevail, justice and healing must perfect the groundwork.[10] What is glaring in these approvals for the establishment of a WECC is the desire to seek justice and accountability by making those who afflicted pains and mayhem to account for their actions; find psychological closer and deter future occurrence by putting in place relevant mechanisms. Accountability is an important tool to assess the quality of a nation's governance but also a necessary pre-requisite to securing human rights, strengthening the rule of law, sustaining peace and social cohesion, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing the quality of democratic governance[11].

Economic wealth and Political power

The conflicts did not only weaken the Liberian economy and leave legacy of atrocities but created leaders and organizations that have invested in skills and equipment that are only useful for violence. While most of the Liberian population suffer the effects of the civil war, the leaders of the various military factions, particularly those who perpetrated violence benefitted from it. The country's interim arrangement (2003-2005), was structured in a way that allocated top positions to factional leaders who inserted their members or proxies in key positions. The power-sharing cabinets was not only corrupt but created political coalitions dominated by the warring factions and political elites with direct access to state resources without any accountability.

Although there is no empirical data to support the link between high-profile jobs and ascendency to higher political offices, a plethora of uncorroborated information shows how some elites and warlords exploited the country's resources and lucrative public positions to become lawmakers and policymakers. A classic example is the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Coperation (LPRC). Before the cessation of, and immediately after, the war in 2003, LPRC was inundated with factional appointees and political elites during the Interim leadership of Gyude Bryant. From 2003-2006, Edwin Melvin Snowe Jr used his connection with former ruling party of Charles G. Taylor, the National Patriotic Party (NPP), to be appointed as Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) and got elected as a Representative for Montserrado County and eventually as speaker of the House of Representatives, while Zoe Emmanuel Pennue used his link with the MODEL faction to get to the LPRC as Deputy Managing Director for Operations and eventually got elected as a Representative for Grand Gedeh County. The late Mobutu Vlah Nyepan from the political party slot, was appointed as Deputy Managing Director for Administration and later got elected as a Senator for Sinoe on the ticket of the Alliance for Peace and Democracy (APD) while Richard Divine made use of his alleged contacts within the MODEL faction to be appointed as Deputy Managing Director for Fiscal Affairs/Comptroller and eventually got elected as a Senator for Bomi County on the platform of the Coalition for the Transformation of Liberia (COTOL) and the late Cllr. Frederick Doe Cherue returned to his post as Legal Counsel for the entity through the clout of some powerful political group. He got equally elected as a Senator for River Gee County on the ticket of the Unity Party.

Prolonged years of conflict has not only created a form of moral bankruptcy in Liberia but given currency to a national syndrome whereby those with privilege to resources through any kind of position of power are seen as "not smart", especially if they do not use their access for personal aggrandizement. The exploited class usually rain praises on those who are responsible for their backwardness and underdevelopment. Sadly, opposition to the establishment of a WECC is largely led by few misguided elements in society who would rather prefer their 'political vultures' and 'economic vampires' to continue triumphing in their pursuit for wealth and political influence while the masses live in abject poverty.

Political Elites & External Enterprises role in State Capture

There are avalanches of instances in which Liberian elites exploited established system to enrich themselves without any penalty by the presidency. Corruption, especially in relation to the management of Liberia's natural resources is widely recognized as having greatly contributed to the country's political instability and ensuing armed conflicts.

In February 2005, several NTGL ministers signed a deal which granted a company with no previous mining experience exclusive rights for 10 years to purchase all minerals extracted in the diamond rich Western area of Liberia.[12] [13] Pervasive corruption in Liberia is enhanced and facilitated through legitimate activities, such as procurement processes, natural resource concessions or other money-making opportunities that are often made fraudulent through insider-dealing and off-the-books deals[14]. The March 2005 U.N. Panel of Experts report characterized the conditions under which the agreement was negotiated as "extremely opaque." They noted that there was no formal or open bidding process and no consultations with the Liberian Monopolies and Contracts Commission. According to the contract, the company, the West African Mining Corporation (WAMCO), was to have paid a single payment to the National Transitional Government of Liberia the amount of $1 million. The contract also contains a provision on security that allows WAMCO to create its own private guard service. The panel noted with concern that "past experience with logging companies has shown that such organizations can quickly become militias."[15]

In another instance, a March 2005 report by a special parliamentary committee established to investigate corruption by members of the parliament concluded that there had been "gross financial and administrative malpractices at the National Transitional Legislative Assembly," including the misappropriation of US $92,000 of government money without authorization of the plenary; the awarding of contracts for services and equipment to numerous assembly members; the distribution of items donated by the Chinese government on a purely personal basis; and the unauthorized payment of over US $40,000 to assembly members for the payment of medical bills and other emergencies.[16]

As a result, parliamentary former and late speaker, George Dweh, his deputy and two other members of the house were suspended from the NTLA.[17] Similarly, on August 3, 2005, J. D. Slange, the former head of Liberia's Maritime Bureau and a former senior member of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), was together with two of his deputies charged with economic sabotage and fraud for their role in siphoning off of US $3.5 million of government money.[18] This was the first time a government official appeared in court to face corruption allegations, since the civil war ended in 2003. Also, on August 13, 2005, the Monrovia Magisterial Court arrested and charged the former Managing Director of the Liberian National Port Authority, Alphonso Gaye, with stealing US $600,000 intended to salvage a sunken vessel at the Free Port of Monrovia.[19] Meanwhile, concerns of corruption made the Community of West African States, to draft a hard-hitting three-year anti-corruption plan called the Liberia Economic Governance and Action Plan (LEGAP).[20] The plan which was presented to the government in June 2005 to limit the government's powers to grant contracts; placed expatriate financial controllers in key ministries, etc was criticized by the transitional government and several prominent politicians who complained that it created a quasi-trusteeship, seriously threatened Liberia's sovereignty, and placed Liberia under "expatriate management.[21] However, while criticized by members of government, there was considerable support for the plan among Liberian civil society.

One scholar of Liberian politics put it this way: "Warlord pursuit of commerce has been the critical variable in the conflicts.[22] Indeed, in post conflict Liberia, U.K. Based Global Witness unearthed several corruption scandals involving political elites and some operatives of the president. Investigation by Global Witness[23] shows that that Sable Mining bribed major decision makers in an attempt to acquire an iron ore concession in northern Liberia[24]. Also, in Augustus 2008, the late Minister of State, Willi Knuckles, a trusted friend of former president Sirleaf, was caught in the act of corruption and bribery for funding from Delta Mining Company and Tata Steel in the Western Cluster bidding process.[25] Also, in October 2008, another confidant of the president, the Director- General of the Cabinet, Madina Wesseh was allegedly caught in similar scandal along with the late Knuckles. Several government officials and president Sirleaf's party members including the late Harry A. Greaves Jr, were caught in similar act of massive corruption. The famous story of Bigboy 1, Bigboy 2, Cllr. Varney Sherman, Mr. Alex Tyler and host of other Unity Party stewards' hands were caught in the cookies jar. Besides government functionaries, private individuals are also involved in stealing money that are intended to improve soccer in Liberia. For example, in 2019, the former Liberian Football Association president Musa Hassan Bility, who was slapped with a 10 year ban from all FIFA activities for stealing the organization's money meant to promote football and save lives in Liberia during the Ebola epidemic[26], has recently been elected as member of parliament - representing his home town in Nimba. Bility is not the only person who used his resources to ascend to political office. Two of the former officials of President Weah's government under U.S. Sanction, namely Nathaniel McGill and Bill Twehway, were both elected as senators for Margibi and River Cess Counties, respectively. The same could be said of Mr. Alex Tyler who was impeached by his colleagues in the 53rd Legislature for several alleged acts of corruption is now back in parliament as a Senator of Bomi County.

Elites Corruption and Anti-graft measures

Following prolong period of widespread corruption, mismanagement, financial malpractices and total breakdown in the governance system, there have been some efforts to curtail waste, fraud, and abuse to ensure accountability and transparency in the public sector. In addition to Global Witness corruption findings in 2010,[27] from 2011- 2017, the General Auditing Commission Audit (GAC) investigated several corruption cases and indicted different stakeholders, including government officials, business entities, individuals, international firm, etc.[28] Equally, GAC also unearthed and indicted several corruption cases from (2017-present)[29]. Meanwhile, in the fourth quarter of 2023, following thorough investigation into allegations of corruption, GAC investigated and commenced the indictment and prosecution of several individuals involved in illicit activities. On the overall, the Commission has investigated and concluded nine (9) cases of corruption between January to December 2023. Du