Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay, has called on Liberians, particularly residents of Gompa City, Nimba County, to promote national unity, reject tribalism, and respect the rule of law.
Gbeisay meanwhile, warned that ethnic divisions could threaten the country’s hard-won peace and stability.
He made the statement on Monday, October 12, during the opening of the Supreme Court’s October Term at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
Justice Gbeisay urged citizens to unite regardless of their tribal, or ethnic backgrounds. He cautioned against actions that could reopen painful chapters of Liberia’s history.
“I want to use this occasion to call on all Liberians, especially my fellow citizens in Gompa City, Nimba County, to unite, irrespective of tribe, or ethnic background.”
Gbeisay emphasized the need to shun tribalism, “because it undermines national unity, threatens peace, and can trigger violence and war.”
He reminded Liberians that the country had previously experienced the devastating consequences of ethnic divisions, and conflict. He also stressed the need to promote unity and avoid confusion.
“Such circumstances must never be allowed to return.”
Gbeisay vowed that the judiciary will enforce legitimate court judgments without fear or favor, regardless of the consequences.
“The law is blind, and the only tribe recognized before a court of competent jurisdiction is justice.”
He said, court decisions must be determined by evidence, and applicable laws rather than ethnic identity, political influence, or public pressure.
Gbeisay meanwhile, acknowledged that enforcing court judgments remains a challenge as the judiciary works to expand access to justice.
He particularly referenced past difficulties in enforcing judgments in Montserrado and Nimba counties, where disputes over land, and other legal matters have reportedly generated tensions among communities.
On the most recent developments in Gompa City, Gbeisay alleged that a former city mayor invoked tribal sentiments during efforts to enforce a final court judgment.
“The former mayor claimed that Mandingo people had no land rights in the city.”
He further alleged that the former mayor mobilized members of the Mano and Gio communities against the court, and particularly, against him in his capacity as Chief Justice.
Gbeisay also disclosed that his family continues to face threats, and attacks connected to the controversy.
“Up to and including today, my family remains under threat, and subject to constant attacks.”
He added that some individuals had allegedly threatened to kill him over claims that he had awarded land to Mandingo people.
Gbeisay recommitted to judicial independence, noting that court judgments are based on evidence, and applicable laws, not tribal considerations.
His remarks place renewed attention on the need to protect judicial officers, resolve land disputes through lawful procedures, and ensure that court decisions are respected by all parties.
His appeal comes amid concerns about tribal tensions, land disputes, and the reported resistance to judicial decisions in Nimba County.
Gbeisay’s message emphasized that peaceful coexistence, equal protection under the law, and respect for the authority of the courts are essential to preserving unity, and preventing a return to the violence that previously devastated the country.
