By By The People News
Temple of Justice— The President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, has called for deeper judicial reforms, institutional accountability, and fairer treatment within the justice system as the Supreme Court of Liberia opened its October Term A.D. 2025. Speaking at the formal opening ceremony, Cllr. Varmah hailed the Judiciary for strides made under Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay, Sr., while emphasizing the urgent need to address long-standing issues that continue to undermine justice delivery.
The event marked the first official sitting of the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Gbeisay’s leadership. Cllr. Varmah described the moment as “a renewed opportunity for reform, strengthening the rule of law, and rebuilding public confidence.”
Varmah lauded the Supreme Court for its diligence during the March Term, noting that the Bench handed down fifty-seven opinions despite a backlog of cases. He particularly praised the Justices for hearing electoral disputes from Nimba County during their vacation period, which he described as “a true demonstration of judicial duty and sacrifice.”
The LNBA President extended condolences to the Judiciary for the loss of judicial workers who served with loyalty and commitment. He said their dedication “must inspire those who remain to serve with honor and diligence.”
Cllr. Varmah commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration for implementing the Judiciary’s Financial Autonomy Act, calling it a “turning point” in strengthening judicial independence. “This autonomy,” he noted, “should translate into improved institutional capacity, better working conditions, and enhanced public service delivery.”
Highlighting the grim conditions of Liberia’s detention facilities, Cllr. Varmah lamented the plight of pretrial detainees. “Our prisons are overcrowded, and in many instances, conditions violate basic human dignity,” he said. He urged the government to ensure that all accused persons are promptly presented in court in accordance with Article 21(f) of the Constitution.
The Bar President welcomed Chief Justice Gbeisay’s declaration that “corruption must go or corrupt people must go.” He said the statement should not remain rhetoric but be translated into sustained institutional action. “The Bar stands ready to support integrity training and disciplinary enforcement within the Judiciary,” he affirmed.
Cllr. Varmah expressed concern over salary disparities revealed by the Civil Service Agency’s audit, noting that some senior judicial officers earn less than their subordinates. “This is despicable and inconsistent with justice,” he said. He urged the immediate correction of these inequalities and commended the Chief Justice for initiating a reclassification process.
He also backed the call for a comprehensive audit of the Judiciary to ensure transparency and proper implementation of the Financial Autonomy Act.
The LNBA welcomed the ongoing review of Liberia’s Rules of Court led by retired Chief Justice Francis S. Korkpor, Sr. Cllr. Varmah described the initiative as “a monumental step toward modernizing justice delivery.” He assured that the LNBA would provide expert input to ensure the new rules reflect contemporary realities.
Cllr. Varmah called for a review of Liberia’s appellate procedures, particularly the automatic dismissal of appeals for failure to file a notice of completion. He described the rule as “disproportionate” and a barrier to justice, especially for indigent litigants. “Minor procedural errors should not deny a person their constitutional right to appeal,” he said, proposing legislative and judicial remedies.
The LNBA President hailed the creation of the Judicial Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability Unit but urged that it operate with independence and clear standards. He also supported the introduction of a digital tracking system for court fees and fines to prevent manipulation and enhance transparency.
Cllr. Varmah commended the Judiciary’s effort to establish a specialized Family and Children Court, describing it as “a progressive step that will bring compassion and sensitivity to family-related cases.” He pledged LNBA’s collaboration through advocacy, training, and capacity building for judicial officers.
The LNBA acknowledged progress on key judicial infrastructure, including the 70% completion of the Maryland County Judicial Complex, the furnishing of the Gardnersville and Brewerville Magisterial Courts, and the renovation of Paynesville Court. Varmah urged continued support for constructing a new Supreme Court Complex to reflect the institution’s dignity and growing workload.
Cllr. Varmah reaffirmed the Bar’s willingness to work with the Judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and other stakeholders in reforming the justice system. “The Bar remains committed to promoting the rule of law and defending the rights and liberties of all Liberians,” he said.
In closing, the LNBA President called on members of the Judiciary to ensure that the October Term A.D. 2025 is marked by “diligence, wisdom, and fairness in the dispensation of justice.” He emphasized that restoring public trust requires not only institutional reforms but personal integrity and ethical leadership at all levels of the justice system.
