The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) recently commemorated the International Law Day. The event was centered on the theme: “Access to Justice for All: Bridging the Gap Between the Law and the People.”
The celebration, which took place in Paynesville over the weekend, brought together legal professionals, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, academia and community members, underscoring the importance of unity in the pursuit of justice.
LNBA Secretary General, Cllr. Elsha TJ Forkeyoh, reflected on the collective commitment required to maintain balance within Liberia’s justice system.
“This day serves as an opportunity to promote awareness of the League’s contributions to civic education and the importance of holding justice and legal institutions accountable.”
Cllr, Forkeyoh highlighted the collaborative efforts of various sectors, including the Liberia National Police, immigration services, students and civil society representatives.
“Justice is not the task of one sector, but the duty of all.”
He reiterated LNBA’s mission to ensure equal justice for all citizens, and to encourage institutions to operate within a framework of accountability.
LNBA National President, Cllr. F. Juah Lawson, highlighted the essential role of the legal profession in advocating for access to justice.
Lawson said, the law should not be perceived as an institution reserved for the privileged few, but as a fundamental right for every citizen.
“We must engage our communities and simplify legal processes to enhance public awareness.”
Cllr. Lawson also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of various stakeholders, including the United Nations in supporting initiatives to improve access to justice.
Cllr. Lawson called for actions that bridge the gap between the law and the people, ensuring that justice is a guarantee for all, not a privilege.
In her keynote address, former Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh, echoed the call for reflection on the meaning of access to justice.
Justice Yuoh issued a stern warning that the Law Day celebration should serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for collective efforts to bridge the gap between the law and the people, reinforcing the belief that access to justice is a right that must be upheld for all citizens, regardless of their status or circumstances.