Gbarnga, Bong County ~ Resident Judge of Criminal Court “E” in Bong County, His Honor Cllr. Cornelius Wennah, has underscored the critical role of access to justice in upholding the rule of law and sustaining Liberia’s democratic foundation. Judge Wennah made the statement during a keynote presentation at the 2nd Judicial Retreat of Trial Judges held in Gbarnga on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Addressing fellow members of the judiciary, Judge Wennah emphasized that access to justice is not a privilege but a constitutional right enshrined in Liberia’s legal framework and essential to a functioning democracy. He described it as the ability of all individuals — regardless of status — to seek and obtain legal redress through systems that align with international human rights standards.
“Access to justice ensures that every individual — rich or poor, powerful or marginalized — can seek redress, protection, and enforcement of rights,” Judge Wennah declared. “It is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be treated as such.”
Citing several constitutional provisions, including Articles 11(c), 28, and 65, the Bong County judge reiterated the need for justice to be administered fairly, without interference, and by an independent judiciary. “These articles affirm that no person is above the law, and justice must be impartial and accessible,” he noted.
Judge Wennah also cautioned against viewing the rule of law merely as the existence of legislation. “Laws alone do not guarantee justice,” he said. “What matters is the fair and effective enforcement of those laws.”
He described the judiciary as the “last line of defense” against abuses of power, human rights violations, and injustice. “When courts open their doors wide, enforce rights without fear or favor, and ensure remedies are available, the rule of law becomes a shield for all,” he stated.
Barriers to Justice
However, Judge Wennah acknowledged a number of persistent barriers hindering access to justice in Liberia. These include financial constraints, geographical and infrastructural challenges, procedural delays, and social and cultural limitations. He called for comprehensive reforms to address these issues, including:
Judicial reforms and judicial activism
Strengthening legal aid programs
Promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
Leveraging technology in court processes
Reducing delays and inflexibility in the justice system
Call for Inter-Branch Cooperation
Beyond judicial reforms, Judge Wennah made a strong call for enhanced collaboration and complementarity among the three branches of government — the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary — to ensure justice delivery and uphold the rule of law.
He reminded the executive branch of its duty to respect judicial independence and comply with court decisions. “The police, for instance, are the first point of contact for many citizens seeking justice. Arbitrary arrests and rights-violating behavior erode public trust and weaken the justice system,” he warned.
Judge Wennah also condemned instances where executive officials have resisted or delayed implementation of Supreme Court mandates, stressing that such actions severely undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
To the Legislature, Judge Wennah issued a clarion call for increased budgetary allocations and the creation of enabling legal frameworks to strengthen the justice system. He cited the need for sustained funding for courts, correctional facilities, legal aid schemes, and support for vulnerable groups. He also highlighted the importance of specialized units like the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Crime Unit under the Ministry of Justice.
Upholding the Rule of Law
In his closing remarks, Judge Wennah urged judicial actors to remain committed to upholding their constitutional obligations. “Access to justice is not just a promise on paper. It is our duty as judges to make it a lived reality for the Liberian people,” he said.
He concluded with a stern reminder: “Where citizens are denied fair and timely access to justice, the rule of law is replaced by the rule of power. Our judiciary must be impartial, efficient, accessible, and fiercely independent.”
The retreat brought together trial judges from across Liberia, fostering dialogue on pressing issues in the justice sector and charting a path forward for stronger judicial performance and accountability.
