Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay has officially dedicated three magisterial courts across Montserrado County, with a combined estimated value of over US$558,000, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing reform and expansion of Liberia’s judicial infrastructure.
The dedication ceremonies took place at three locations: the refurbished Paynesville Magisterial Court, and the newly constructed courts in Gardnersville and Brewerville Townships.
Speaking during the event in Paynesville, Chief Justice Gbeisay emphasized the importance of providing court facilities that reflect the authority and integrity of the judiciary.
“It’s an honor for us to be here today to dedicate courtrooms that appear like a courtroom,” he remarked.
Chief Justice Gbeisay disclosed that two years ago, the judiciary adopted a strategic plan aimed at constructing four magisterial courts and one judicial complex annually.
“We’re endeavoring to ensure this plan is executed,” he said.
For the current fiscal year, the judiciary has completed the refurbishment of the Paynesville Magisterial Court, valued at over US$90,000, and constructed two new courts in Gardnersville and Brewerville, with each facility valuing at US$234,000.
He credited these achievements to the financial autonomy recently granted to the judiciary, made possible through the support of the Boakai administration.
“We want to thank the government of Liberia, particularly the Boakai administration, for all these successes,” he noted.
According to Chief Justice Gbeisay, the Judiciary Financial Autonomy Act has enabled the courts to plan and implement development projects independently, resulting in tangible improvements across the justice sector.
The refurbished Paynesville Court has been upgraded to meet modern standards, providing a functional and dignified space for the dispensation of justice and helping restore public confidence in the judicial system.
Following the dedication in Paynesville, the Chief Justice proceeded to cut the ribbon at the new Gardnersville Magisterial Court, before heading to Brewerville Township to complete the day’s series of inaugurations.
He expressed appreciation to the City Mayor of Paynesville and the Township Commissioners of Gardnersville and Brewerville for their cooperation and support in realizing the judiciary’s infrastructure goals.
In a firm address to judicial staff, Chief Justice Gbeisay warned against acts of corruption and misconduct.
“Mr. Stipendiary Magistrate, we expect you to perform in line with where you sit. We don’t want to see people who are not working here coming to charge people exuberant fees,” he cautioned.
He reminded the magistrates that the courtroom is a place of public service, not personal profit.
“This is not a business place. You’re the face of this court. Your actions will either drive or bring people to this court,” he said.
Reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on impropriety, Chief Justice Gbeisay stated: “Anything goes wrong here, we’re going to hold you responsible for it.”
The newly completed and refurbished courts are expected to enhance access to justice, reduce case backlogs, and foster a more professional judicial environment throughout Montserrado County.
With the successful dedication of these courts, the judiciary reaffirms its commitment to expanding legal infrastructure and improving the delivery of justice across Liberia, one courtroom at a time.
