A week after taking the oath of office, Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay, has challenged members of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) to recommit themselves to upholding the rule of law, strengthening ethics within the profession by setting a higher standard of accountability in the justice system.
In his first formal address as Chief Justice during the opening of LNBA’s Executive Strategic Retreat in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County Chief Justice Gbeisay warned against practices that undermine the credibility of the legal profession.
“This is a country of law and not of men,” he declared to a round of applause from the gathering predominately lawyers.
He added: “We must realize that there are some bad apples among us. Lawyers are engaging in things they are not supposed to, thus creating evidence and delaying cases. We must ensure that the ethics of our profession are upheld.”
Gbeisay expressed dismay over the bar lack of a proper headquarters despite being regarded as the oldest Bar Association in Africa.
While drawing inspiration from a recent visit to Zambia, where he observed the Zambian Law Society operating from a three-story building, Justice Gbeisay called for the urgent need for the LNBA to build a befitting home.
“One of our priorities must be to have a headquarters that reflects the dignity of the oldest bar in Africa. As Chief Justice, I will personally contribute to this effort. I therefore, pray to see it achieved before I retired,” he said.
On the issue of continuing legal education, Justice Gbeisay criticized the lack of seriousness among some members of the bar during conventions. He then recommended shifting responsibility to the Judicial Institute.
“Lawyers come to court totally unprepared, spending more time searching for evidence when questioned. This shows something is wrong. Continuing legal education must be taken seriously to ensure lawyers can competently present their cases before the Supreme Court,” he urged.
Earlier, LNBA’s National President, Counselor Bornor M. Varmah, described the retreat as a “historic moment of reflection, planning and reaffirmation for country’s legal community.”
Cllr. Varmah informed hhis colleagues that the retreat would focus on the adoption of a national welfare policy for members, approval of a comprehensive three-year strategic plan, and the formulation of policies to guide both local and foreign travels for members of the Association.
Cllr. Varmah extended appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) for sponsoring the retreat, noting that their support underscores the importance of a vibrant, independent, and professional bar in consolidating democracy, justice and peace.
“This is not only about setting policies, but about defining the legacy of the LNBA at this crucial juncture in our nation’s history. Let us think boldly, act responsibly, and commit ourselves to the values of service, accountability and professionalism,” Varmah said as he officially declared the retreat opened.
The retreat, which runs from August 20 to 23, 2025, brought together bar leaders and members, who deliberated on key policy frameworks. The goal was to usher in a new era of professionalism and accountability in the country justice system.