Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay has cautioned 64 newly trained magistrates against corruption, urging them to remain impartial and uphold the rule of law as they begin serving in courts across Liberia.
Speaking Friday at the graduation ceremony of the Professional Magistrate Training Program at the Temple of Justice, Chief Justice Gbeisay reminded the graduates that the public would judge the entire Judiciary by their conduct.
“This is both an honor and a serious responsibility,” he said. “People come to court seeking justice, not empty promises. To them, you represent the Judiciary. If you are fair, people will respect the law. If you are corrupt, they will lose confidence in the entire justice system.”
He warned that attempts would be made to influence their decisions and urged them to stand firm.
“You will face temptation. Money may be offered, and pressure may come from politicians, influential people, friends, or even family members. Your loyalty must always be to the law. The moment you sell one judgment, you damage the credibility of the Judiciary,” the Chief Justice said.
Gbeisay also announced that all 64 graduates will immediately be placed on the government payroll.
“I want to thank the Minister of Finance because arrangements have already been made to place these graduates on the payroll,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan said an independent and credible Judiciary is essential to Liberia’s development.
“No economy can thrive where people lack confidence in the justice system,” Ngafuan said. “We can introduce sound economic policies and attract investors, but without a strong rule of law, sustainable growth will remain difficult.”
He described the fifth cycle of the Professional Magistrate Training Program as a milestone, noting that it was fully funded by the Government of Liberia.
“This is the first time the program has been financed entirely through the Judiciary’s national budget. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to building stronger public institutions,” he said.
According to Ngafuan, the Judiciary’s budget has grown from US$18.5 million in 2023 to US$33.3 million in 2026, supporting court construction, digital reforms, and efforts to improve access to justice across the country.
He also reminded the graduates that their character would be tested once they assume office.
“The real test begins after today. There will be pressure from relatives, politicians, business people, and others who may try to influence your decisions. Always remember that the authority you exercise belongs to the Republic of Liberia, not to any individual,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, valedictorian Josiah S. Wiah reflected on his journey from growing up during Liberia’s civil war to graduating at the top of his class.
“I come from humble beginnings. Standing here today is a testament to God’s grace, my family’s support, and the opportunities this country has given me,” Wiah said.
He pledged that he and his fellow graduates would serve with honesty and professionalism.
“We reject corruption in every form. We will not compromise justice for personal gain, political pressure, financial inducement, or any other influence,” he said.
Wiah also appealed to the government to continue investing in the Professional Magistrate Training Program, describing it as vital to strengthening the justice system and ensuring equal access to justice for all Liberians.
The 64 graduates completed a year of professional training and are expected to be assigned to magisterial courts across the country to help improve the delivery of justice at the community level.
