CJ Yuoh Wants Female Lawyers Commit To Women, Children’s Rights

By Precious D. Freeman

Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh is calling on Liberian female lawyers and organizations to recommit themselves to the defense and advancement of women’s and children’s rights across the country.

Speaking at the induction ceremony of newly elected officers of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), to a gathering of legal professionals, female leaders, judges, and special guests, Chief Justice Yuoh warmly welcomed all in attendance, extending special acknowledgment to rural women leaders and the Liberia Marketing Association.

She praised AFELL as a cornerstone organization in the fight for justice and equity for Liberia’s most vulnerable populations.

“Women and children’s issues will always demand our attention. They will always need our strength,” the Chief Justice emphasized. “AFELL will forever have its hands full because the challenges are persistent, deep-rooted, and evolving.”

Reflecting on her early involvement in AFELL and her time serving as first vice president under former Chief Justice Gloria Musu Scott, Yuoh shared personal anecdotes underscoring the enduring relevance and necessity of the organization’s mission.

“I didn’t wait to be called. I just showed up. This is our organization. If we wait to be invited, nothing will move,” she said, urging members to be proactive, not passive, in addressing national injustices.

She highlighted disturbing issues such as child marriage under customary law, human trafficking, and the continued exploitation of young women under the guise of relationships facilitated through social media.

Drawing from real-life stories, including that of a Liberian woman stranded in the Gambia and young girls lured into false marriages, the Chief Justice painted a sobering picture of the dangers women face.

“There’s a lot of work to do,” she said. “You see girls taking pictures at hotels, and the next thing, they’re gone. Families never hear from them again.”

The Chief Justice also recounted her experiences visiting magistrate courts across the country, where she observed serious gaps in legal knowledge and application, particularly concerning child support cases and the improper use of public defenders.

“A court is not compelled to wait on you unless your reason does not delay justice,” she noted, critiquing the casual approach some public defenders take in handling critical legal matters.

Chief Justice Yuoh stressed that lawyers, particularly women lawyers, have a responsibility to use their legal expertise to educate, advocate, and defend those who cannot help themselves.

“The Marketing Association depends on us. The rural women depend on us. Women and children all over Liberia are depending on us.”

She concluded by congratulating the incoming leadership of AFELL, and encouraged them to lead boldly and effectively.

While acknowledging the short two-year term for officers, she reminded the audience that leaders should already be immersed in the work of the organization before taking office.

“Two years is too short but if you’re working before you get the title, you can still do a lot,” she said.

With heartfelt stories, legal insight, and a clarion call to action, Chief Justice Yuoh reaffirmed the vital role of AFELL and Liberia’s women lawyers in shaping a just, inclusive society.

“Let us not just wear the white and celebrate. Let us work. Liberia needs us now more than ever.”