Monrovia, Liberia-In an unprecedented move, the entire Bench of the Supreme Court of Liberia, including Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh, was noticeably absent from this year’s Law Day celebration organized by the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) on May 3, 2025.
Law Day, traditionally commemorated on May 1 each year, is a significant event in Liberia’s legal calendar, bringing together legal professionals, judges, and justices in a unified celebration of the rule of law.
This year’s event was held under the theme: “Justice, Accountability, and Inclusion: Building a Stronger Liberia under the Rule of Law.”
The absence of the Supreme Court Justices has ignited widespread speculation and debate within legal and political circles, with many interpreting the move as a silent protest.
Legal pundits point to growing tensions between the Judiciary and the LNBA, particularly surrounding a recent public statement by LNBA President, Cllr. Bonor Varmah, regarding a Bill of Information filed by embattled Speaker of the House, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa.
Cllr. Varmah’s comments, which appeared to criticize the Supreme Court for allegedly overstepping its constitutional bounds and interfering in political matters, were met with swift backlash.
Among the critics was former Chief Justice Cllr. Glorious Musu-Scott, who labeled the statement as “untimely and misguided.”
The LNBA has accused the Supreme Court of misinterpreting Article 33 of the 1986 Constitution, further fueling the institutional rift.
The controversy underscores broader concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the politicization of legal processes in Liberia.
As the country continues its efforts toward legal reform and democratic governance, the Supreme Court’s boycott of Law Day sends a clear signal of unease within the nation’s highest legal institutions.
The episode highlights the urgent need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect among key pillars of Liberia’s justice system.
