The Clar Hope Foundation, established by the First Lady, has announced it will appeal a lower court’s decision to the Supreme Court of Liberia after a motion to quash a subpoena was denied.
In a statement released today, the Foundation confirmed it has instructed its legal team to challenge the ruling, arguing that the case raises fundamental constitutional questions regarding the limits of government authority. The legal dispute centers on a Subpoena Duces Tecum—a court order requiring the production of documents or records—issued to the Foundation. After the [Name of Lower Court] denied the Foundation’s bid to have the subpoena thrown out, lawyers for the organization moved to escalate the matter to the nation’s highest court.
“The Clar Hope Foundation has taken note of the Court’s decision denying its Motion to Quash the Subpoena Duces Tecum,” the statement read. “We respectfully disagree with the ruling and have instructed our lawyers to file an appeal to the Supreme Court of Liberia.” In a pointed clarification regarding its legal strategy, the Foundation emphasized that the appeal is not an attempt to evade scrutiny but a defense of constitutional principles.
“Let us be clear: this appeal is not about hiding anything. It is about ensuring that the Constitution of Liberia is respected and that government power is exercised properly and fairly,” the release stated. The Foundation pushed back against what it characterized as unwarranted suspicion surrounding its operations, highlighting the global precedent of First Ladies engaging in philanthropic work. It described its mission as serving vulnerable communities, supporting children and families, and contributing to national development, insisting it has acted in good faith and in accordance with the law.
“Many public figures, including current and former First Ladies, establish foundations to support charitable and social causes,” the statement continued. “The mere existence of such a foundation should not automatically create suspicion or a presumption of misuse of public funds. Service to country must not be mistaken for wrongdoing.” With the matter now heading to the appellate level, the Foundation expressed confidence in the judiciary while reaffirming its commitment to due process.
“This matter is now before the appellate court. The Clar Hope Foundation will see this process through, not out of defiance, but out of respect for the rule of law,” the release said. “The Constitution protects every citizen and institution equally.” The organization added that it remains ready to comply with any lawful process that is carried out in full accordance with the Constitution.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the Foundation vowed to continue its humanitarian work. “The Clar Hope Foundation will continue its humanitarian mission with integrity, transparency, and unwavering commitment to the Liberian people,” the statement concluded.