Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay has urged 64 newly qualified magistrates to remain honest, independent, and committed to the rule of law, warning that corruption and outside influence could undermine public trust in Liberia’s justice system.
Speaking Friday at the graduation of the fifth cycle of the Professional Magistrate Training Program at the Temple of Justice, Chief Justice Gbeisay told the graduates that their actions on the bench would shape how ordinary Liberians view the Judiciary.
He reminded them that people come to court expecting fairness and justice, not favoritism or political influence.
According to him, every decision they make will either strengthen or weaken public confidence in the courts.
The Chief Justice cautioned the new magistrates against accepting bribes or allowing politicians, business people, friends, or family members to influence their rulings. He stressed that their allegiance must always be to the law, warning that a single dishonest judgment can damage the credibility of the entire Judiciary.
Gbeisay also announced that all 64 graduates will immediately be added to the government payroll, saying the necessary arrangements had already been completed. He thanked the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning for supporting the initiative, which will allow the graduates to begin their judicial duties without delay.
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, who delivered the keynote address, described a strong and independent Judiciary as one of the foundations of national development. He said economic growth and investor confidence depend largely on a justice system that is fair, impartial, and trusted by the public.
Ngafuan noted that the latest magistrate training program marked a significant achievement because it was funded entirely by the Government of Liberia through the Judiciary’s national budget. He said the move reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening public institutions and expanding access to justice.
The Finance Minister also disclosed that the Judiciary’s budget has increased from US$18.5 million in 2023 to US$33.3 million in 2026, allowing for the construction of court facilities, the expansion of digital systems, and other reforms aimed at improving judicial services across the country.
Addressing the graduates, Ngafuan encouraged them to remain steadfast when confronted with pressure from relatives, politicians, business interests, or other influential individuals. He reminded them that the authority they will exercise belongs to the Republic of Liberia and must never be used for personal or political gain.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, valedictorian Josiah S. Wiah reflected on his journey from growing up during Liberia’s civil conflict to graduating at the top of his class. He thanked God, his family, and those who supported his education, while pledging that he and his colleagues would uphold integrity, reject corruption, and dispense justice without fear or favor. Wiah also appealed to the government to continue supporting the Professional Magistrate Training Program, describing it as essential to improving access to justice in communities across Liberia.
The 64 graduates completed a year-long professional training program and are expected to be deployed to magisterial courts throughout the country, where they will help strengthen the administration of justice and improve judicial services at the local level.
