Dear Readers,
I’m delighted to let you know that both Mr. Stephen Rapp, chief prosecutor of the Special Court for Sierra Leone, and Mr. Courtenay Griffiths, the lead defense counsel for Charles Taylor, have both agreed to do a “questions and answers” interview with us. Mr. Rapp has agreed to be interviewed this coming weekend, while Mr. Griffiths has agreed to be interviewed after Mr. Taylor has finished testifying.
We want to open up the floor to you, readers, to submit your questions for either or both Mr. Rapp and Mr. Griffiths. For Mr. Rapp, we will be taking questions right up until this Friday. (We will open up the floor to questions again for Mr. Griffiths closer to the time of his interview).
If you can post your questions in the comments section under this post, it will be much easier for us to track. Depending on how many questions we get, and how much time Mr. Rapp and Mr. Griffiths have available, we may have to choose a selection, but we will hope to try to get all questions answered to the extent it is humanly possible.
I know that some have already flagged questions: Noko4, for example, has asked two: 1. What role does the ACCORD played in this case? and 2. And why Pres. Kabbah is NOT on trial?
If there are other specific questions for the defense or the prosecution specifically that I have overlooked, please do alert me and we will add them to the list.
I look forward to seeing your questions.
GREAT!!!!
For Mr. Rapp.
1. We have heard from you about BILLIONS you claimed Mr. Taylor has in various banks, Mr. Taylor has challenged the entire world to produce a single deposit, moreso, the various accounts. So far, you and your staff have failed to produce anything, WHY??? Are there said accounts, if so, we will see said evidence presented in this court??? If you don’t produce said evidence, what does that do to your case given you have beaten the horse to death on this issue??
2. Why isn’t Pres. Kabbah on trial when some of his deputies are facing jail terms; according to some of them, they got INSTRUCTIONS from him. In other words, isn’t he LINKED to their crimes they committed since Mr. Taylor is been LINKED to crimes by RUF???
3. There was an Accord signed that ended the war in July ’99. From my understanding, that Accord FORGAVE ALL for whatever they did during the war years. As I read the charges against MOST, especially Mr. Taylor, MOST of his charges occured before the Accord was signed. So why isn’t the Accord been honored when it was SIGNED OFF by the int’l communities??
4. How come HEARSAY is the ONLY CREDITABLE evidence the prosecutors gave us during their showing given the amount of money been spend??? Do you truly believe one should be jail away for life on HEARSAY??
5. Did the prosecutors have those various DOCUMENTS Mr. Taylor is producing in this case?? If so, WHY weren’t they presented by the prosecutors???
6. Are you counterplating ending this trial by executing RULE 51C?? If not, WHY not???
For Rapp:
We have been given to understand that the original indictment for Mr. Taylor’s arrest was disclosed to the US Government, prior to it official unsealing. How true is this account and what was the rationale if the account is correct?
We are all aware that Mr. Taylor’s case is a high profile case – The trial of a sitting African President. If justice went astray in such a trial it would send negative signal to other Leaders, and organizations. Do you not believe that such a trial should have a smoking gun rather than relying on second hand evidence?
What comments do you have about assertions that America and Great Britain are using the ICC as a tool to humble ‘Taylor more than it is their quest for justice.
Cllr. Griffiths
Words cannot say how GRATEFUL some of us are in your skillful handling of this case. We heard but to FACTUAL see FACTS on what Mr. Taylor did….amazing. It was a GREAT he kept his Presidential Papers……I didn’t know in Africa such PAPERS were kept.
1. I know you got lots of witnesses to bring up, but do you feel Mr. Taylor should be only WITNESS given what was presented(HEARSAY) by the prosecutors and how you HIT RUNS upon HIT RUNS???
2. What is your take on HEARSAY as evidence in such a case???
3. Are you planning on bringing back any of the prosecutors witnesses like Mr. Sheriff, Mr. Bility and last witness for the prosecutors that told this court that his limbs were chopped off by SLA and not RUF back on the stand???
4. Has there been any meeting between both sides in ending this trial sooner than later??? My reason for asking is your side has provided FACTS as compared HEARSAY.
5. Have you been able to FIND out where the BILLIONS of DOLLARS Mr. Taylor is accused of having on this planet??? It seems like the Mr. Rapp cannot show us where and I was thinking MAYBE Mr. Taylor might have whispered something to you.
we cant see the live feed no more, what up with that last time on 20 aug 09 , thats not fair please fix the problem, the caribbean wants to see and hear what going on……..thank you …..very much……
Here are few question for Mr. Rapp. How can you relate happenings of the Sierra Leone war to that of Liberia’s? The NPFL did not cut the hands and legs of Liberians during their brutal fighting as the RUF did in SL. How can these acts be a trademark of Taylor when he did not tolerate such acts in Liberia? Don’t you think these wicked acts where invented by the Sierra Leoneans themselves? Did you research some history of Sierra Leones and how they maimed and killed their fellow citizens in simple things like a cheiftancy election? Did you know that some of the atrocities that happened in Liberia were introduced by Ulimo which was made out of Sierra Leones. Did you know that Ulimo and it’s Sierra Leonean fighters were the first rebel movement to start burning entire villages and towns to make them inhabitable should in case NPFL recaptures them. I was born and grew up in Western Liberia along the Liberian/Sierra Leonean. And one fact that most Liberians are aware of is that Sierra Leoneans are not relaible – they a very good at telling and lies. Thanks for your time.
Cllr. Stephen Rapp.
In July of 2002, the Internal Criminal Court (ICC) came into being. From what I understand, this court is to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. The United States of America, the Country that has appointed you as its Ambassador-at-Large on War Crimes have criticized the court and refuse to participate in it or to permit the court to have jurisdiction over their citizens. Is it not ironic that the Country you represent would support you to bring other nationals to this court while you lack the ability to have its citizens brought here?
Mr Rapp
It’s being awhile now since you made us to understand that Taylor has millions of blood diamond money stacked in foreign banks. To date you have not shown us dime of the Taylor millions. Don’t you thinkl it is time that you show the millions to further boost the prosecution case? Taylor has challenge you and everyone else on this planets to show proof that he has millions in hiding. You want to tell me that Taylor is that sophisticated that you can’t find the money you alleged he has? Now you are talking about assets he owned. The only asset Taylor has is the house in Congo Town, Monrovia which won’t even sell for half a million dollar.
For Mr Rapp: You have been reported in the media as saying that you are convienced that Charles Taylor will be convicted even when the trial is still on. Have you suddenly been promoted from being a prosecutor to the enviable position of a judge in this case? Do you think a truly professional and competent prosecutor should be making such public statements even when the trial is still pending?
For Mr. Rapp and Mr. Griffiths
Will the prosecution or defence call to the stand the convicted RUF leaders (Issa Sesay and others)? I think they can share more light as to who is right or wrong
To Mr. Stephen Rapp:
1. What legal grounds or under what U.N Resolution that grants the indictment, arrest, and destablization of a seating president of a sovereign country prior to President Taylor?
2. Do you take pride in the illegal process that was used to have President Taylor in the custody of the court sitting in the Hague?
3. Could you expand on the reason why hosting the trial in the sub-region will create instability especially in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the sub-region especially when Liberia has about 15,000.00 UN troops and arm embargo is placed on the country?
Can you explain to us why Obasanjo was pressured by the US after an arrangement was reached in President Taylor seeking asylum in Nigeria to be turned over to the court for prosecution?
4. Why the white foreign mercenaries that fought in Sierra Leone are not being held accountable?
5. One of the prosecution witnesses said his legs and arms were amputated by Tejan Kabah army, why isn’t the government of kabah on trial?
Mr. Griffiths,
Your client originally denied the legitimacy of the Special Court and wanted to defend himself. Now he seems to respect the Court, utilizes you and the rest of the defense team, and is attempting to work within the system to prove his innocence. Do you know what caused this change of heart?
Thanks,
Shelby Grossman
To the moderator–Please delete my previous question. I will pose it later when questions open for Mr. Griffiths.
My apologies.
-Shelby Grossman
Hi Shelby,
We are taking questions at this stage for Mr. Griffiths too — if you don’t mind, I will keep your question up. Please feel free, along with other readers, to post questions for Mr. Griffiths as well as Mr. Rapp. We will simply continue to collect questions for Mr. Griffiths until his interview.
Best,
Tracey
Mr. Rapp In most jurisprudence namely the USA in a civil case a person is found guilty base on the preponderance of the evidence, while in a criminal case a person is found guilty beyond all reasonable doubts. Hypothetically, if the Taylor case was a civil case the prosecution has failed to produce preponderance of evidence to convict. Rather, it’s the defense that has presented the preponderance of the evidence. In this criminal case for Taylor to be found guilty is must be beyond all reasonable doubts. Notwithstanding, the defense is continue to raise reasonable doubts that makes it almost impossible for any reasonable prudent person(s) to find him guilt.
My question to you Mr. Rapp what yard stick of JUSTICE would you use to measure a guilty verdict
For Mr. Rapp
Mr. Griffith presented evidence that Mr. Crook a British national, I mean Mr Cook a British national shipped arms to Sierra Leone. Some of the arms ended in Bo Waterside that killed innocent people. Some of these arms ended in Klay, Liberia that killed innocent people, some of these arms ended in Bomi County, Liberia and Lofa County, Liberia. Why double standard? Is Mr. Crook the British National on trial for providing arms to Sierra Leone, I mean Mr. Cook?
What happened to Radios supplied to Taylor’s Fighter and RUF fighters by the US Government? Is William Jefferson Clinton facing trial? Is George H.W. Bush facing trial? Why double standard?
Do you think any American President will stand trial in any foreign country, and If yes, when? If no, why not? Mr. Taylor was duely elected by 76.2% of the people of Liberia. Liberia has no case againt Mr. Taylor.
When will Ellen Johnson Sirleaf be brought to the ICC to face trial or have you passed judgement?
Did you not know Mr.Taylor had ample evidence to present as part of his discovery? If not, why not? You stated recently Mr. Taylor will be found guilty. Do you know of somethings we don’t? Are you suggesting Mr.Taylor is guilty until proven innocent? What a hinge mob!
Mr. Rapp,
During their cross examination of prosecution witnesses, defense lawyers used several lines of inquiry to discredit witnesses. They argued witnesses said what they thought the prosecution wanted to hear because of the compensation they received for testifying. They pointed to inconsistencies in witness testimony. They argued that witnesses testified against Taylor to avoid prosecution for crimes they themselves committed. Of these (and other) lines of inquiry, which do you think was the strongest (i.e. most persuasive)?
Thanks,
Shelby Grossman
For RAPP<
Why di you decide to accept a job from president obama, knowing fully well that you are heading the procsecution team against mr,. taylor and his defence team in major case that has been high lighted by the whole world as very important? Is it that you have gotten to know you really lie on taylor, and because you will not win the case, you are trying to get into the american govrment to get money to bribe the court an get mr. taylor by all means?
2. Was the present position you are going to occupy advertise and was there a bidding process? How did you get this job? what did you do? how did you qualify? TELL US!!!
For RAPP,
I like to know what you think , if the present position you are about to occupy was contested by GRIFITTH during your application process, looking at your present perfomance in your created case against taylor, you were going to get that job? If yes, why?? If no WHy??
For Mr. Rapp
It is stated Mr. Taylor has FIVE BILLION DOLLARS in a NY Bank. As a result of the war, I lost my ten year old daughter in 1990 in Liberia. Please tell me when I’ll be compensated for the lost of my child? I’m urgently awaiting your response. I need part of the FIVE BILLION, hurry!
For Mr. Griffiths
Thanks very much for the manner and style you have provided the world in representing Mr. Taylor. One of these days, I hope to have tea with you in Clapham Commons, or Claphan Junction.
Thanks for exposing the so called super power who facilited the war in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Mr Rapp,
You now have a new job. Do you still think this charade should continue when it is so clear that you do not have a case based on the so-called evidence you provided.
Is this case a part of the new control mechanism developed by the West to control the resources of Africa by instilling fear in our leaders? Why is is that Americans do worse but they get not even a slap on the wrist; whereas you have failed to present any first hand evidence on Taylor yet you asert that he Will be convicted. Is this a foregone conclusion or total arrogance on your part and that of the powers that be.
Are you all embarassed that your methods and shady deals have been exposed to the world?
Whay are you so sure that Taylor “will” be convicted? Are you allowed to prejudice this trial in such a manner or are you stateing what your superors have decided will be a foregone conclusion? Is this trial just a mockery?
Why are you so bent on demeaning Mr Taylor? What is in it for you. Personally? Have you been threatened or promised rewards should he be convicted despite the evidence?
Why was Mr Taylor the one person you Westerners picked on when obviously many other leaders had much more involvement with the RUF, and Comojors than he ever had? Are these leaders being protected because they are powerful or close allies of the powerful?
When are you all going to call it a day with this trial and save yourself the shame and embarrassment. I saw you flandering during your presentations, it was apparent that even you were struggling to establish the connection between Mr Taylor and the alleged crimes. Is this case still worth pursuing? Couldn’t the money be more effacaciously utilised for the victims of the civil war in both SL and Liberia?
Why is the West so bent on this so-called justice? Have you considered what this could mean for unity in the West African region or is this the intention? Is this another case of Divide and Rule?
Tracey,
Thanks for the reminder that questions about Mr. Griffith can also be asked. However, I’m strongly convinced that the audience of this website read with understanding about the Q/A for both men. Notwithstanding, vast majority of the questions is being posed to Stephen Rapp. That speaks volume in itself.
Tracey Gurd, you may not know how President Taylor is being loved and very popular amongst Africa especially Liberians; but they know and that’s why they are playing games.
Mr. Rapp
1. Why did you used Monrovia not freetown as a venue for your farewell press confrence?
2. What is your stand as a prosecutor on HEARSAY and DECUMENTARY EDVIENCE ?
3. Do you care to know where Mr. Taylor sold BLOOD DIAMONDS as alleged by you? If yes, what will you do about it?
4. You alleged that the STF was Mr. Taylor making. Meaning he sent them in Sierra Leone. But at Liberia TRC hearnings, a senior commander of the STF Mr. Joe Wallece, said that the STF were members of AFL that regroup in SL to fight against Mr. Taylor with full knowledge of the government of SL. What do have to say about this edvience?
5.What are you doing or plan to do as a human right person for those Liberians that were abused by one of your citizens Charles Taylor jr, now that he is guilty of crimes committed in Liberia?
6. As an Ambassador-at Large for War Crimes issues, what is you option on a Special Court for Liberia to prosecute war lords as recommanded by the TRC?
7. What has happened to the remains of Johnny Paul Kormah that you once told us were found in Foyah, Lofa County, where those remains that of the real JPK?
I will have to wait and see because all of my question has been asked. All of the question I have for Rapp has surface so many thanks to all of you guys that doing the following up. Jose had said it why is it that the defence team is not getting questions like the persecuting team. Tracey Taylor is love by even you yourself. These people have no case at all, let them leave this whole thing
Mr. Rapp,I am pleased to ask you if as a prosecutor is under oath to dispense justice in a fair manner or is it because Mr. Taylor knew already that you,Mr.David Crane and Mr.Jacque Klein were sent by America and Great Britain to dump him and you pretended to be investors?Are you not a share holder of Greater Diamond company which Mr Taylor refused to do business in Liberia?Grudge is not justice.I am a liberian and do not support mr.Taylor for waging war in Liberia because I lost my Dad but are you informed on the number of times Sierra Leone supported incursion into our Country?(from President Tubman’s tenure)Remember that Bush is no more President for America and to get on course with Barrack you have to be fair.Tejan Kabbah implicated mr.Taylor falsely for which you are aware,what will be the fate of him and the current president of Liberia(Ellen Sirleaf) and the C.I.A who gave arms to Mr.Taylor?
Mr. Rapp, are you aware that you recruited my friend who never even fought the war to go in Holland and lie on Mr. Taylor?I do not think it prudent now to call the name but remember that you cannot deny that your team never came Liberia to recruit liars.My number is 00231 6 569378 for ant further clarification
Hei Jose, let me tell you something, if Mr Taylor is being loved and also being popular among African and his people it’s because he is a brother. These people are not playing any game.
For Mr. Rapp .
During the war in Sierra Leone , as we are all aware , both “ International“ and “ Humanitarian“ Laws were grossly violated by all parties .
My questions therefore are :
a) having indicted the late Hinga Norman on war crimes and crimes against humanity , and knowing fully well, that everything that Norman did was done , in the name , and with the blessing of Tejan Kabbah , why has he ( Kabbah ) not been indicted?
b) Tejan Kabbah and Sani Abacha took that fatal decision to use military force . The nigerian troops bombarded populated areas with cluster bombs in violation of “ International“ Laws ; Nigerian troops gang raped women in towns ( Lunsar , Makeni and port Loko ) to name a few ; Nigerian troops looted everything ; Nigerian troops looted the diamond fields ; Nigerian troops summarily executed thousands of people . All this was done , in the name , and with the blessing of Kabbah .
The question now becomes :
why is Kabbah still a free man ?
Why is that no nigerian general has been arrested ?
T-Bone,
Good Point!
To the Prosecution
Evidence has been presented in this court that Gambia has no DIAMONDS but yet Gambia is a center for DIAMONDS sale. The evidence further shows that DIAMONDS that were SOLD in the Gambia orginated from SL. So why the Gambian president is not being charged for sponsoring war in SL for diamonds? We also see that there is huge disparity in the sale of DIAMONDS from Guinea and the disparity results from illicit sales of DIAMONDS that originate from SL. So why the Guinean president was not also charged for trading in BLOOD DIAMOND given the fact that Guinea also shares border with SL?
Why is it that this prosecution believes that Charles Taylor who was president for a war torn nation should be responsible to stop illicit DIAMOND trade from SL but late Lassana Conteh of Guinea and Yaya Jamil of Gambia should not also be held responsible for the same thing?
Moreover, as advance as the American security is yet they cannot stop the sale of illegal guns in the United States but you expect Charles Taylor to stop the trading of small arms in the jungle? What kind of standard is this prosecution using to believe that Charles Taylor is or was a god who had all the powers in the world to stop all the criminal activities that have been going on?
To the Defense
We observed that all of the prosecution witnesses testified mostly on HEARSAY evidence. I was interested to know whether the defense also had the same right to bring up witnesses to testify against those prosecution witnesses on HEARSAY.
Will the defense bring witnesses to testify against Varmuyan Sheriff, socalled journalist Hassan Bility, socalled inside witness Zigzag Marzar and others on HEARSAY? For example, if Varmuyan Sheriff had said that he was at point A at a particular time with Mr. B will the defense bring witnesses to say that Varmuyan Sherrif was at point B with Mr. A? Because I think this would be a good strategy to discredit the prosecution witnesses further.
For RAPP,
Are you going to make that the U S goverment becomes a part of the ICC, after wards indict president BUSH????
For Rapp,
According to the Rome Statute, the ICC will have jurisdiction over matters that occurred after July 2002, the time the statute came into effect. Now the case involving Charles Taylor cover a period outside this timeframe, is there any rationale, how was that reconciled legally in order for this case to proceed.
Mr. Rapp,
You have now been appointed US Ambassador for War Crimes. My question is recently Chucky Taylor was sentenced to 97 years in prison by a United States court for torture carried out in Liberia. What are you going to do as Ambassador for war crimes to make sure that the C.I.A. operatives with the auhority of the George W. Bush government who carried out torture against foreigners in Iraqi and Afghanistan are also brought to justice ? Further do you think it was selective justice for the Bush administration to allow the prosecution of Chuckie Taylor knowing that they sanctioned torture
as a policy ?
Hello, I love the coverage which is provided here, and I apologize if this question has already been asked, but the question I have for Mr. Rapp would be why the prosecution relied on reports when it could have used those who authored said reports as witnesses? Secondly, what is the strategy now that the prosecution can no longer call witnesses?
Thank you for your time.
Mr.Rapp
1. While all the chief prosecutor are white?
2. Is crimes transferable?
3. I understand this court is a Sierra Leonean court Back by the United Nations but i see the United Nations is playing the leading role why?
4. Do the Supreme Court of Sierra Court have authority over this court?
5. If this court is back by United Nations then why are they renting facilities at the ICC in the Hague ?
6. Why the United Nations do not have a budget for this court?
7. why no screening facility was establish for this trial in Liberia like what was done in Sierra Leone?
8. Will you show us were Mr.Taylor allege monies are?
Mr. Rapp, you have often lobbied in the media that the SCSL is running short of funding. Therefore:
1. Who are the primary funders of the SCSL and what percentage of costs do they fund?
2. Will this shortfall of funding prevent the completion of the Charles Taylor trial?
3. If funding should run out, what procedurally would occur?
Mr. Rapp,
First, thank you for being so generous with your time to read and answer these questions. We in this chat understand that you don’t have to, but you elected to do so, we thank you.
While I don’t doubt the academic accomplishments and your professional accolades, I somehow question the motive of this trail. I think Charles Taylor (CT) has done the most unimaginable of human atrocities in Liberia; a trial in Liberia would be the proper forum;yet I question the validity of the trail in Sierra Leone (SL). There have been several claims and accusations; some of them outrageous. I frankly believe (and its my opinion) that you and others who are seeking justice for crimes in SL should be commended; however, your case against CT is unfounded and lack evidential substance, for example the $5B dollars that Taylor allegedly have in foreign account. My question, would you be willing to prosecute presidents and former presidents of the US for war crimes as well? You are probably think that “I’ve lost my marbles”. Based on your indictment CT financed the war in SL. I think there are striking parallels between the war in Iraq and that of SL; in terms of crimes and atrocities. Going back even further, I am sure you are aware of the School of the America’s, are you willing to prosecute someone for training, sponsoring and assisting civil war in Latin America. The U.S sponsored Chinope, the brutal dictator for years; also a product of the School of the America’s as were Hugo Chevez, and Manuel Antinio Noreiga. Further, as of recently, Blackwater (now, XE) was contracted by the CIA to conduct covert operations to kill or extract leaders of Al Qaeda in foreign lands (source, CNN), would you agree that these acts are similar to what CT is accused off? In Iraq, women are raped and killed, more than 100,000 have lost their lives, and people are held indiscriminately against their will without proper legal representation. If we seek justice for victims, we should dispense justice fairly, equally and unbiasedly.
I want to see justice done for the people of Sierra Leone, like I would for the people of Liberia. Since you want to see CT slammed in jail, I would recommend that you forge for a war crime court in Liberia. We need to prosecute all who committed major offenses against the people of Liberia; all warlords.
I am sure your years in the legal profession has been to protect the weak and defenseless. This case has not been totally about that; it is political. Unfortunately for the prosecution, Sir; you and the team has not provided the evidence to bring an honest guilty verdict. The defense has been a more formidable force than you all anticipated. I personally don’t think the defense is winning the argument, the prosecution basically defeated themselves.
As you may not know, I am not a supporter of Taylor, but, Mr. Rupp, like you, I am a supporter for transparency and blind justice. Please don’t allow yourself to be compared to a car salesman, selling “lemon” to the public. You have said a lot, but little has substance and supported facts or evidence.
I thank you, and congratulations on your new post.
bnker, firstly, where Stephen Rapp has answered these questions? I will like to know his response to these tough questions.
Secondly, How is Mr. Stephen Rapp being supporter for transparency and blind justice just like you? I’m little bit confused about Mr. Rapp being supporter of transparent justice and at the same time blind justice?
Jose,
The first question, I don’t quite understand it.
The second question; transparency, meaning unbiased and factual judicial system. Blind justice meaning that the legal system is free of prejudice. So how can justice be blind and at the same time transparent, I guess this is your question? It can be based on fact (transparent) and blind free of prejudicial and preconceived judgment.
I am sure the gentleman’s professional life has not been marred with preconceived biased. So when I say that he seeks “justice just like I”, I am most certain that Rupp career and fights over the years were for victims. I also want to see justice for victims in Liberia. I repeat, the case in SL is not a “slam dunk”. Because we perceive the case to be lack of substance, we have to be respectful to the Mr. Rupp. Please remember he elected to read and respond, he didn’t have to. I think its only polite, diplomatic and professional and we afford him all due respect and be cordial toward him. We may not agree with Cllr. Rupp, yet we can be respectful.
I hope I helped out there.
bnker, since you don’t quite understand my first question, I will little bit expand on it. However though, in your previous piece you said, “First, thank you (Rapp) for being so generous with your time to read and answer these questions.” I am not doubting the fact that Mr. Rapp did not read these questions. If he did or did not, I don’t know. As the result, I’m giving him the benefit of the doubts that had read these questions if you say so. But, where I’m not convinced and will not give him the benefit of the doubts, rests on whether he had answered any of these tough questions that you said he had answered. I have not seen or read any answers from Mr. Stephen Rapp on this website as of August 28,2009, 2200 hour in regards to our questions and concerns. I think, if he had answered these questions, Tracey Gurd as always, would had been very fair to him and the audience in posting it. That is why I asked you where (website) did Stephen Rapp has answered these questions? I will like to know. It was your sentence structure that prompted my question.
secondly, thanks for telling me something that I already knew. However, I know the distinction and definition of both blind and transparent justice. That’s not the issue. Nonetheless, this is no favor you have done for me. You claimed that Rapp is a supporter of transparency and blind justice. I think this man is just clueless of both. He is nothing that resembles both of transparecy and blind justice with in the context that you have defined it. clearly, this man is lousy, sloppy, gloomy and unreliable prosecutor as evidence of his presentation in this case.
Hi Jose,
I am set to speak with Mr. Rapp later today, though it may not be for very long as he is in the middle of catching planes between the US and West Africa. He has told us he will hope to look over the questions people have posed on this site in advance and we will try to cover as many as possible in the limited time he has available. I am recording his answers and will try to transcribe them by early next week to ensure people on the site will have access to the answers.
Best,
Tracey
Jose,
I don’t know if I should actually respond to your comments, not because they are challenging, but because it’s obvious you lack diplomacy, and tactful mannerism. My personal opinions about Rapp and the execution of this trail, is just that–my opinion. You have yours, I have neither condemned or challenge them; maybe it’s because I have respect of others views; though, opposed to mine at times. Regardless of your or mine personal opinion about Rapp and the trail. I repeat, he still is doing you and everyone of us a favor; therefore, for this and other things he should be commended. He was given a responsibility to pursue a case. I don’t think “one case” is going to define this gentleman’s career. We see it has not impede it either–he has been promoted. I, like you and many others do not agree with the direction of this trail and the evidence or lack thereof, presented. Do I think Rapp has been done a good job, NO. Do I think he needs to be ridiculed, and mocked, NO! Do I think he needs to be disrespected and insulted, not in the least bit. I personally think regardless of the outcome of this trail, he will write a book, therefore, profiteering. So does making money in a capitalist environment wrong, again NO!
We both agree that this trail is contentious and at times the debates get heated. Additionally, at times knowledge is transferred, other times, not. In this case it’s glaring that I imparted no knowledge to know. My intention was not to educate you but clarify my statement that you found confusing. Why? I still don’t understand. Whatever may be the case, I would appreciate that we stay on the topic at hand and leave the name callings and irrelevance of our personal opinions about Rapp or anyone out. In my threads if you have had the luxury to follow, I try to stand objective–siding with neither CT or the Courts. I look at evidence and discuss the issue. As I have said several times, I am not a supporter of CT, neither do I want to see him jailed for prosecutorial or defense blunder, or poor judges’ decision.
So what am I saying? Rapp deserves to be commended and thanked for the opportunity afforded us to ask questions– though I disagree with the premise of this trail. I am not convinced that all his cases have been lopsided and full of loopholes as this. If I am not mistaken, he worked on Rwanda trail too. If you read through my thread properly, I suggested to Rapp, “don’t allow yourself to be compared to a car salesman, selling “lemon” to the public. You have said a lot, but little has substance and supported facts or evidence.” My comments does not show support, but disagreement, not antagonism, yet in a respectable manner…maybe its something that we all can learn a bit off.
Mr. Rapp,
When the Defense announced to the court that it had in it’s possession archives of Mr. Taylor. The prosecution filed a motion to have access to the documents but the motion was denied by the judges. My question is do you think if you had gained access to the archives you might have found some incriminating evidence?
bnker, you have still not answered my question. Where and when did Mr. Rapp answer these tough questions as alleged by you. All the other things you are saying is distraction and irrelavent to my question. If Mr. Rapp will write or sell books, I can care less. If he has been elevated or promoted, is none of my business. If you believe in capitalism or free market, that’s your problem. If you think he’s a diplomat that has not been confirmed by the united States Senate, that’s your thinking; he is still Steven Rapp. Keep your side comments to yourself. Please answer this simple question.
The reason why I’m in pursuit of answer from you is because I have learned something from this trial. If someone says something that is not true, it is better you confront it immediately; or else, they will keep on saying it until they actually believe it to be true and if possible, mislead many people believing it also. If this happens, I will have to work twice in order to inform the people of the truth and I don’t want to work double.
Jose,
I don’t understand your trend of thought at all. However, you reinforced my point, you definitely lack diplomacy and tactful mannerism. I have not said anything that is considered false, misleading, or untrue. However, I could volley jabs with you; however, it is definitely not in my best interest to do so, why? I have read your arguments and pretext for them are usually dumbfounded, lack of substance, and frankly poorly cnstructed. Engaging in a tug of war or words with you does only thing and one thing only, you gain because you learn from it–unfortunately, I won’t.
FYI, there are ways in which one can construct a debate or argument, you are not there yet buddy. If you didn’t understand the premise of my statement, I was thanking Rapp in advance for taking these questions (the future) not the past (as you claim). Please don’t tell me you were confused because I didn’t put the word, “advance” in my thank you line. So, if you want to debate please lets do so, I surely don’t appreciate you or anyone throwing insults or attempting to ridicule yourself while thing it a “discussion”. Discussion and debates though at times heated are respectful. Its obvious you miss the big picture. It’s apparent that you are dwelling on one line or phrase and you are pathetically, unsuccessfully framing a discussion, while in the same breath, portraying yourself as somewhat intelligent–sorry not working for me. Whatever my questions, compliment, opinions are about Steven Rapp, you or no one will change that.
I try to be tactful and show restrain to some comments, yet there are some people who actually deserve to be listened to and others we put them on “redemption road” thinking that they are restructure their thought process (you are one of those). Professionalism and mannerism is something you learn from exposure. Get out and hang with the right crowd, you might learn a thing or two, I am sure you are capable of learning; you have exhibited that to me–the progress is slower that most would like, but you will get there.
For the record, I will not comment on Steve Rapp any further, you may cry over spilled milk, that’s your choice, but I am sure not giving you the opportunity to feel smarter than you actually are. So, my friend, don’t jab if you don’t have a strong jaw to take a punch.
Let’s get back and debate the case!
Hi Tracey,
Please get this question to Cllr. Rapp if it still falls in time:
Q. If justice is what we all want from this noble court, what is his position on the 2m USD, military uniforms and arms and armunitions that were given to the Guinean Government, years back when Taylor was still President in Liberia, under the pretence of being used to train the Guinean Army, as widely expressed and confirmed by the US Government on BBC, but as clearly known said deadly supplies surfaced in Liberia through the borders of SL and Guinea right in the blood seeking hands of LURD and used by them to carry out massive distructions of lives and properties right before the American Ambassy near Monrovia? (ref. the 80ml motal gun used to bomb the city of Monrovia was declared American made on BBC then).
Q. If Taylor traded, as alleged by his team, arms for SL rich diamonds with the RUF just in a short period of time to profit him (Taylor) not less than 3 billions and have it stocked in some very secret banks somewhere within the universe…who than was mining and benefiting these rich diamonds prior to Taylor coming in the picture and what was done for SL in terms of development by the person/s in question? Remember SL has always been underdeveloped prior to the war in the subregion and diamond mining has always been the first known business in SL. Can he notice some faul play around here with the less position of SL in terms of development?
Look Tracey, We really have problem here in Africa. But I can tell you that the old writing on the wall now is eraced and replaced by FACTS and MORAL JUDGEMENT. The new and young generations of Africa can no longer be blinded by these Devils. I can see that very few of our friends are abit afraid to face the truth but we are on our way to rescue them from these terrible hands and have them stand for what is right to protect the good image of Sweet Africa right from this case.
Good day Fellows,
I appreciate you all for speaking out your minds in support of justice!!!!!!!!!
May God bless you all.
Dolo
Dolo,
you are a true african.God bless you too.
Very well.
We can now see how this whole case will end. They thought they knew better.
Keep up your good work guys.
Lv
Tracy,,
We are anxiously awaiting your interview with Mr. Rapp. From the questions posed on this forum. I believe this will be the first time that Mr. Rapp is not asked ” Soft Ball” questions.
Hi Aki — I am glad you are looking forward to the interview. I am speaking with him tomorrow and will try to get it all transcribed and posted by early next week.
There are so many questions readers have asked — it is fabulous! — but we may not be able to get through all of them depending on Mr. Rapp’s time. Let’s see — we will get through as many as we can.
Best,
Tracey
Tracey,
Could I toss this final question for Rapp.
Do we expect to see the prosecution confronting Mr. Taylor with his various bank accounts and inquire from him as to how he got $5 billion dollars?
I had thought someone would have posed this question more directly.
Of course, Andrew. Thanks!
Best,
Tracey
To either of the two:
Do you think it would be relevant to use any of the evidence gathered in the book “merchant of death” by Farah and Braun? In the book, it is basically described how Victor Bout and Taylor convinced Sankoh to enter Kono with the agreement that they would supply the arms and have rights to parts of the diamonds. This would certainly be relevant to include if it is considered to be the truth.
Thanks,
Jakob
What is the point of prosecuting alone for gun running and diamond trading in Sierra Leone when you know very well ECOMOG was the engineers of running guns in exchange for diamond in Sierra Leone?
Sorry, I meant Taylor alone
Mr Rapp
My question is a simple one
Given that the proscution’s case hinges on the question of ‘Linkage’ Why have some of the ‘key Actors’ with possibly, first hand information that goes to the heart of this issue, such as Issa Sesay, Kallon and Gbao etc, not been called to give evidence?
FROM “QUESTIONS” for Mr. Griffiths — Submitted on 2009/12/04 at 9:46pm
Hello Tracey,
A while ago I remember both the prosecution and defense said they would answer questions from the public. Mr Rapp did that. Will Mr Griffiths? If so, could I respectfully ask the following questions for Mr. Griffiths:
1. I understand that the Court is paying Mr Taylor’s legal bills because he is ‘partially indigent’. http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2009/090717_Rapp.doc.htm
Can you please explain:
a) What is Mr Taylor’s current financial situation? Does he continue to receive any income from any investments, businesses or otherwise?
b) How much of Mr Taylor’s bills are being covered by the Court?
c) What does it mean to be ‘partially indigent’?
d) Why is it that the Court is paying any of his bills when the most recent report of the UN Panel of Experts disclosed that:
a. Mr Taylor owns property in his name in Monrovia worth hundreds of thousand of US $; and that,
b. Since 2003, the company PLC has received millions in US$ from Lonestar cellphone company in Monrovia (note that Page 343 of the Vol 2 of the TRC Final Report: says that “PLC Limited, a corporation owned jointly by Charles Taylor and Benoni Urey and Emmanuel Shaw II, two of Taylor’s financial advisors.”)
2. Has the defense or the Court paid any of the expenses or given any other benefits to any of the witnesses that the defense will call? Why did Mr. Taylor talk to potential defense witnesses on a secure/unmonitored telephone line?
3. While he was on the stand, you asked Mr Taylor to explain the Liberian shipping registry. His explanation was factually incorrect. What was the purpose of asking him to explain the registry? Did Mr Taylor ever benefit personally from the Shipping and/or Corporate registries?
4. During Mr Taylor’s cross you seem to be portraying two Liberia’s after his 1997 election: 1) a Liberia that was broke after decades of theft and war; and 2) a Liberia rich in natural resources. It appeared that the purpose of the second depiction is to suggest that Mr. Taylor had no interest in SL’s riches because Liberia is rich enough.
a. But doesn’t the first depiction of a broke-Liberia undermine this defense by contradicting the argument?
b. Regardless, when does someone have ‘enough’ that they won’t go after other – especially easier – money?
5. I understand from the media that Mr. Taylor does not have any Sierra Leoneans or Liberians on his legal team. If this is correct, why doesn’t he? If this is not correct, what positions do they hold?
5. How do you think that the conviction of Mr. Taylor’s son on torture charges in the US will affect Mr. Taylor’s case? Is it possible that Mr. Taylor’s son might give evidence against Mr. Taylor in order to reduce his sentence?
Hello Tracey,
A while ago I remember both the prosecution and defense said they would answer questions from the public. Mr Rapp did that. Will Mr Griffiths? If so, could I respectfully ask the following questions for Mr. Griffiths:
1. I understand that the Court is paying Mr Taylor’s legal bills because he is ‘partially indigent’. http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2009/090717_Rapp.doc.htm
Can you please explain:
a) What is Mr Taylor’s current financial situation? Does he continue to receive any income from any investments, businesses or otherwise?
b) How much of Mr Taylor’s bills are being covered by the Court?
c) What does it mean to be ‘partially indigent’?
d) Why is it that the Court is paying any of his bills when the most recent report of the UN Panel of Experts disclosed that:
a. Mr Taylor owns property in his name in Monrovia worth hundreds of thousand of US $; and that,
b. Since 2003, the company PLC has received millions in US$ from Lonestar cellphone company in Monrovia (note that Page 343 of the Vol 2 of the TRC Final Report: says that “PLC Limited, a corporation owned jointly by Charles Taylor and Benoni Urey and Emmanuel Shaw II, two of Taylor’s financial advisors.”)
2. Has the defense or the Court paid any of the expenses or given any other benefits to any of the witnesses that the defense will call? Why did Mr. Taylor talk to potential defense witnesses on a secure/unmonitored telephone line?
3. While he was on the stand, you asked Mr Taylor to explain the Liberian shipping registry. His explanation was factually incorrect. What was the purpose of asking him to explain the registry? Did Mr Taylor ever benefit personally from the Shipping and/or Corporate registries?
4. During Mr Taylor’s cross you seem to be portraying two Liberia’s after his 1997 election: 1) a Liberia that was broke after decades of theft and war; and 2) a Liberia rich in natural resources. It appeared that the purpose of the second depiction is to suggest that Mr. Taylor had no interest in SL’s riches because Liberia is rich enough.
a. But doesn’t the first depiction of a broke-Liberia undermine this defense by contradicting the argument?
b. Regardless, when does someone have ‘enough’ that they won’t go after other – especially easier – money?
5. I understand from the media that Mr. Taylor does not have any Sierra Leoneans or Liberians on his legal team. If this is correct, why doesn’t he? If this is not correct, what positions do they hold?
5. How do you think that the conviction of Mr. Taylor’s son on torture charges in the US will affect Mr. Taylor’s case? Is it possible that Mr. Taylor’s son might give evidence against Mr. Taylor in order to reduce his sentence?
Dear Steve RAPP,
YOU PROSECUTORS TOLD THE WHOLE WORLD THAT TAYLOR RECIEVED DIAMOND FROM THE RUF REBELS FROM SIERRA LEONE.CAN YOU SHOW US ON THIS SITE PICTURES ,DOCUMENTS OR VIDEO RECORDING TO PROVE TO US OR THE WHOLE WORLD THAT TAYLOR DID RECIEVE SUCH DIAMOND FROM RUF?
ALEX
Alex — I’m afraid we wil no longer be able to get answers from Mr. Rapp, as he has moved away from the Special Court and is now the US Ambassador for war crimes. We will be trying to get an interview with the prosecution team at some stage in the coming months, though, so please keep your answers for then. In the meantime, please feel free to ask Mr. Taylor’s lawyer, Courtenay Griffiths, a question. We are interviewing him this week.
Best,
Tracey
DEAR STEVE RAPP?
DOING 1991,ULIMO REBELS WERE TRAINED IN SIERRA LEON BY THE SIERRA LEONIANS GOVERMENT TO FIGHT AGAINST MR.TAYLOR AND ULIMO CROSSED FROM SIERRA LEONE AND ENTER LIBERIA BY THE WAY OF LOFA AND BO WATERSIDE GRAND CAPE MOUNT COUNTY.HOW CAN TAYLOR CROSS ARMS AND AMINATIONS THROUGH THE ULIMO REBELS TERRITORY WHO WERE CONTROLLING GRAND CAPE MOUNT AND LOFA COUNTY WHICH HAS BORDER AND WERE CONTROLLED BY ULIMO FROM 1991 TO 1997.HOW DID TAYLOR CROSS AMINATIONS TO RUF WHEN THE BORDER WERE BEING CONTROLLED BY ULIMO REBELS?
It is very remarkable to enjoy the court proceeding but it is so disappointing how Judges or the court worry so much about the third man in any crime scene or war logistic. Hitler killed himself in war ll becuase the world was serious, but now everyone point the finger to the third man and not the master mind of war in this century-in spite of Bosnia, the justice system dealing with Africa got little trivial attitude and process prejudice enlightenment which to be enjoyed by the novice. But, as yet, the third man from the third stone(earth)from the sun suffers the consequence. Iraq enjoys diplomatic warfare because Sadam got the blame; most and powerful leaders in the world are just part Sadam, though, but it is like a hidden files in computers. War is necessary for critical conditions but not necessary to confine justice-justice got to be heard.
Mr. Griffiths,
1. Taken into consideration the facts that, Tejan Kabbah was the individual who started the war in Sierra Leone, and in the minds, of many of should have been in the chair now occupied by CT, do you intend to call him as a witness?
2. Mr. Rapp has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons of late and we have seen that he is now the snake oil of the West-African sub-region. My question is: is Mr. Rapp`s credibility not an issue in this case?