LNBA Seeks Establishment Of Specialized Drug Court

LNBA Seeks Establishment Of Specialized Drug Court

By: Yassah J Wright 

The Liberian National Bar Association has made several recommendations to the Government of Liberia, key among them are the establishment of a specialized Drug Court, and National Drug Accountability and Oversight Commission and the amendment of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of 2014

to address the growing impact of the devastating drug and substance abuse across the country. 

At the same time, the Liberian National Bar Association has announced the setting-up of a Drug Law Reform Committee to review current legal drug law framework to aid the Government of Liberia. 

On Thursday, August 7, 2025, Liberians, especially mothers joined by the representative of the Economic Community of West African States staged a day-long anti-drug awareness march captioned “Say No to Drugs.” The objective of the march was to call the Government of Liberia and international partners’ attention to the devastating impact of drug and substance abuse among Liberian youths. 

In solidarity , LNBA National President, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, in a special statement following the ” Say No to Drugs” awareness march, said  the LNBA acknowledges the devastating impact that drug abuse is having on Liberia’s communities, families, institutions, and the future of the nation. 

He further indicated that the LNBA recognizes that the growing prevalence of narcotic substances, especially among young people is fueling crime, deepening poverty, weakening national security and eroding the moral fabric of the society.

Cllr. Varmah urged that the Government of Liberia, particularly the National Legislature, the Judiciary, and law enforcement institutions, treat this crisis as a national emergency and act with resolve, urgency, and sincerity.

” To adopt a more pragmatic and holistic approach in addressing the menace, the Bar makes the following key recommendations: Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of 2014. Review and strengthen provisions to ensure tougher penalties for large-scale traffickers while focusing on rehabilitation for users. Establish Specialized Drug Courts. Fast-track the adjudication of drug-related offenses and prioritize treatment-based approaches where appropriate. Establish a National Drug Accountability and Oversight Commission. A multi-sectoral, independent body should be formed to coordinate national responses, monitor interventions, and report regularly to the public.”  

Furthermore, the Liberian National Bar Association President urged the government to strengthen the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), by increasing the operational capacity, funding, and independent oversight of the LDEA, while rooting out internal corruption.

“Launch a Nationwide Public Legal Education Campaign. Mobilize communities through schools, churches, media, and grassroots platforms to raise awareness of the legal, social, and health consequences of drug abuse. Invest in Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs. Government must commit resources to establish and manage drug rehabilitation centers, and support reintegration initiatives for recovering users,” he urged. 

Meanwhile, the LNBA has announced the setting-up of a Drug Law Reform Committee to aid the Government of Liberia. 

” The LNBA also commits to setting up a Drug Law Reform Committee to review current legal frameworks, collaborating with partners, including civil society and international actors, to advocate for reforms, providing pro bono legal support for vulnerable individuals wrongfully accused or in need of legal representation. This is not a fight for the Government alone it is a national fight. The LNBA stands ready to work with all stakeholders in protecting the future of Liberia from the scourge of drugs,” he concluded.