Monrovia, Liberia-The President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, during the annual celebration of the Law Day issued a powerful address, urging national stakeholders to recommit to the principles of justice, accountability, and inclusion as Liberia navigates a critical chapter in its democratic journey.
Speaking under the theme “Justice, Accountability, and Inclusion: Building a Stronger Liberia Under the Rule of Law,” Cllr. Varmah reminded the public and members of the legal community that Law Day is a time for both celebration and solemn reflection on the role of law in society.
“This day, celebrated across democratic nations, is a solemn reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the rule of law, promote equal justice, and advance the ideals of liberty, accountability, and good governance,” he said.
Highlighting the pressing challenges in the country’s justice system, the LNBA President reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to key pillars, including increased access to justice, judicial accountability, and support for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in line with national and international obligations.
“The legal profession must not be passive in the face of societal challenges,” Cllr. Varmah asserted.
Cllr. Varmah said the legal community must be bold in defending the constitution of Liberia, noting that Bar stands firm to protecting the rights of all citizens, especially the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized.
“We must be bold in defending the Constitution, courageous in speaking truth to power, and committed to protecting the rights of all, especially the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized,” he added.
He also called for an intensified push for public legal education, particularly among youth and rural communities, and emphasized the importance of continuous legal training to uphold the ethics and professionalism of Liberia’s legal practitioners.
Warning against the Unauthorized Practice of Law
In a pointed critique, Cllr. Varmah condemned recent actions by the Ministry of Justice for appointing unlicensed individuals as City Solicitors, a move he described as a “clear case of aiding and abetting the unauthorized practice of law.”
He also criticized judges and magistrates who have allegedly allowed non-lawyers to appear in courtrooms.
“These actions violate Title 17 of the Judiciary Law and Rule 5 of the Rules of Court. They not only undermine the integrity and professionalism of our justice system but also erode public confidence in the rule of law,” he stated firmly.
Cllr. Varmah urged the Ministry to halt the appointments immediately and instead focus on hiring qualified law school graduates who are well-trained and actively seeking employment.
“Employing these young professionals will strengthen the quality and credibility of legal representation and adjudication across the country,” he emphasized.
A Call for National Unity and Legal Reform
As Liberia continues to recover from decades of political instability and civil conflict, the LNBA President urged legal professionals and institutions to act as guardians of justice and defenders of democratic principles.
“Let us reaffirm that no one is above the law, and that a fair and inclusive justice system is not a privilege, but a right for all,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Cllr. Varmah thanked members of the Bar, the judiciary, civil society, and Liberia’s international partners for their continued efforts to strengthen the rule of law.
“Together, let us build a Liberia where the law is a shield for the weak, a restraint on power, and a beacon of hope for generations to come,” he concluded.
