Buchanan – The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, in his first official address to the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) since ascending to the Bench, delivered a stirring call to action for legal professionals to uphold ethical standards, strengthen legal institutions, and commit to the rule of law.
Speaking at the opening of a national retreat for members of the LNBA, Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisey emphasized the need for unity, accountability, and reform within Liberia’s legal community.
“It is an honor for me to be part of this group, in my capacity as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, for the first time, as we gather to discuss the future of our profession and the challenges we face,” he said. “Let’s recommit ourselves to upholding the rule of law in our analysis and advancing the interests of our profession.”
The retreat, described as a forum for strategic planning and meaningful dialogue, comes amid growing concern over declining professional standards within the legal sector. The Chief Justice highlighted a troubling trend of unethical behavior among some members of the Bar.
“We need to realize that there are some bad apples among us,” he cautioned. “Lawyers are engaging in what they are not supposed to be engaging in—creating evidence, ensuring that cases are not heard. We must take the ethics of our profession seriously.”
Further in his remarks, the Chief Justice also lamented the current state of the LNBA’s infrastructure, drawing comparisons to other legal institutions across the continent. Recalling a visit to Zambia, CJ Gbeisey shared his experience touring a well-developed Law Society building, a stark contrast to the conditions of the Liberian Bar Association.
“The LNBA is the oldest Bar in Africa, yet we are still without a proper headquarters. We must change that. As Chief Justice, I will cooperate with you in every direction to see that a modern headquarters is built. I will personally contribute to this cause,” he pledged.
The head of the Judiciary also raised concerns about the lack of effective continuing legal education, noting that many lawyers appear before the Supreme Court unprepared, lacking basic courtroom readiness and legal writing skills.
“Sometimes we hold Bar conventions and begin lectures on continuing legal education, but half the attendees leave the room. It becomes a waste of time. We need to do better,” he said.
CJ Gbeisey proposed that responsibility for continuing legal education be transferred to the Judicial Institute, which he said would provide more structure and improve legal competency.
“There is a need for a center dedicated to continuing legal education. This should cover everything from how to write briefs to how to respond to questions in court,” he stated.
The Chief Justice concluded his remarks with a strong call for collaboration between the Bar and the Bench, urging the legal community to hold itself to higher standards and work collectively to safeguard the integrity of the Liberian justice system.
“This is a country of laws, not of men. Whether you are a President or a member of the Legislature, you must live by the law. And we, as custodians of the law, must do the same.” The retreat is expected to culminate in resolutions aimed at strengthening legal practice, promoting institutional reform, and reestablishing public trust in the legal profession.
