By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has elected a new corps of officials to lead the organization for the next three years, with its outgoing National Secretary General, Varmah M. Bornor, emerging as the new president.
The election took place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, during the LNBA’s National Convention at the Peace Empire Guest House, Wuo-Garbe Tarpia Intellectual Hall, in Gompa City.
The peaceful and transparent election, held as part of the convention from November 28 to December 1, was attended by international and local partners, as well as prominent legal professionals from across Liberia.
The event, supported by the United States Government, UNDP, and Arish Aid, reaffirmed the LNBA’s commitment to alternative dispute resolution and providing pro-bono legal services to Liberians.
The LNBA National Election Committee released the following results:
President: Cllr. Varmah M. Bornor – 309 votes, Cllr. Wiefueh A. Sayeh –115 votes, Cllr. Preston Chea Doe –23 votes.
Vice President: Cllr. Juah F. Lawson –191 votes, Cllr. Evelyn Lah-Gongloe –108 votes, Cllr. Bobby F. W. Livingstone – 90 votes, Cllr. Swalliho A. Sesay – 38 votes, Cllr. Dr. Mohammed S. Sheriff – 20 votes.
Secretary General: Cllr. Elijah T. Forkeyah –228 votes, Cllr. Fredrick M. Gbemie–220 votes,
National Treasurer: Atty. Yemi Shobayo-Williams –269 votes, Atty. Yaney K. Horton –174 votes.
Following the announcement of results, president-elect Cllr. Varmah M. Bornor expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their confidence in his leadership.
He committed to enhancing collaboration with the Supreme Court, the Executive, the Legislature, and international partners to strengthen the rule of law and improve access to justice in Liberia.
“This victory is not just for me but for the LNBA, the rule of law, and democracy. The peaceful and orderly manner of this election is a testament to the LNBA’s commitment to democratic principles,” Cllr. Bornor stated.
Cllr. Bornor emphasized the importance of unity within the Bar, pledging to work with all members regardless of election outcomes.
“The LNBA is the common denominator for us all. After the elections, there is no team; our focus is on advancing the LNBA and addressing the concerns of lawyers and the Liberian people,” he noted.
The LNBA’s new leadership faces critical challenges, including enhancing legal professionalism, expanding access to justice, and fostering public trust in the legal system.
As the Bar moves forward, its leadership aims to play a pivotal role in supporting the legal and judicial systems to ensure fairness, integrity, and justice for all Liberians.
The LNBA 2024 Convention has set a positive tone for the future, showcasing the Bar’s ability to uphold democratic values and address pressing issues in Liberia’s justice system.
