By Precious D. Freeman
The Chief Judge of the Commercial Court at the Temple of Justice, Eva Mappy Morgan, has warned that Liberia cannot afford to compromise the rule of law if it is to achieve meaningful development and uphold the human rights of citizens.
Judge Morgan said Liberia is at a critical need for a renewed commitment to the rule of law urging the government to act decisively to protect the rights and dignity of its citizens, especially those who are vulnerable.
Serving as keynote speaker at the just ended 23rd National Convention of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) held over the weekend at the Supreme Court, Judge Morgan highlighted that its is both the citizens and institutions’ role to actively build a stronger culture of respect for the law.
In her address, Judge Morgan called on Liberians to fully exercise their rights but reminded them that such rights must always be balanced with respect for public order and the rule of law.
Using the example of traffic regulations, she noted that disregarding traffic signals or stopping at intersections without caution represents a broader disregard for laws that are designed to protect the public and ensure safety.
“The exercise of your rights must align with the responsibilities and obligations that come with them,” Judge Morgan stressed, urging citizens to be mindful of the laws that govern society and their behavior within it.
She noted that such actions, even in small matters like traffic violations, contribute to a culture of lawlessness that undermines societal progress and development.
Judge Morgan emphasized that the duty to uphold the rule of law is not negotiable, especially for public officials who are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining order and justice.
She expressed concern that many officials, despite being paid to serve, often neglect their duties and the very rules that are meant to guide public administration.
Judge Morgan expressly highlighted the widespread disregard for rules in public spaces, noting how this contributes to a growing culture of lawlessness in Liberia.
She urged all citizens to remember that laws exist not just to limit freedoms but to ensure a safer and more organized society, where rights can be exercised responsibly.
The Chief Judge then turned her attention to the Judiciary, highlighting the importance of modernization to improve the efficiency of the justice system.
She called for the implementation of electronic case management, the use of stenographers, and better record-keeping systems to enhance the timeliness and transparency of judicial proceedings.
Judge Morgan emphasized that for the justice system to be effective and efficient, there must be an investment in technology and the building of a competent workforce that is capable of embracing new tools and innovations.
“The justice system must stretch itself to embrace innovation,” she said, underscoring the need for reforms that would ensure not only the delivery of justice but also the perception that justice is being administered in a timely manner.
She compared the justice system to the circulation of blood within the body, arguing that a functioning and fair justice system is essential for the vitality of the nation.
“When justice is delayed or denied, it clogs the arteries of our national progress,” she stated, stressing the importance of an efficient and functioning judiciary to national development.
She called for the credibility of the justice system to be protected at all costs, free from political interference and external pressures that could hinder its effectiveness.
She then commended AFELL for its continued advocacy on behalf of women, girls, and other marginalized groups in Liberia.
Judge Morgan praised the organization’s efforts to combat gender-based violence, protect inheritance rights, and ensure the safety of children, highlighting the vital role of civil society organizations in pushing for legal reforms and social justice.
Judge Morgan called for greater emphasis on continuous legal education and the professional development of both legal practitioners and members of the community.
She suggested that the effectiveness of training programs be evaluated regularly to ensure that participants are gaining a deeper understanding of their rights and responsibilities under the law.
Acknowledging the challenges that justice systems around the world are facing in the modern era, Judge Morgan encouraged Liberians not to lose hope in the pursuit of reform.
She reiterated that Liberia’s journey toward a fairer, more transparent, and more effective justice system is ongoing and must continue despite the obstacles it may face.
The 23rd National Convention of AFELL served as a crucial platform for reinforcing the association’s mission to advocate for justice, gender equality, and human rights.
Judge Morgan called on all stakeholders, including government institutions, the legal community, and civil society organizations, to collaborate in strengthening Liberia’s justice system and safeguarding the rule of law for future generations.
