Executive Mansion, Monrovia - President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has highlighted the importance of an independent and effective Judiciary in advancing Liberia’s democracy, peace, and development.

He made the remarks on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the official opening of the October Term of the Supreme Court of Liberia held at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.

Addressing the ceremony attended by members of the Judiciary, Legislature, Executive, diplomatic corps, and the Liberia National Bar Association, President Boakai described the opening of the new court term as “another important chapter in the history of our nation’s Judiciary,” symbolizing both renewal and the continuous effort to strengthen public trust in the rule of law.

The Liberian Leader extended congratulations to His Honor Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay on his elevation as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and welcomed His Honor Boakai N. Kanneh as Associate Justice, noting that their appointments mark a moment of transition and hope for the Judiciary.

“We commend Chief Justice Gbeisay’s determination to pursue long-needed reforms that will strengthen the rule of law and restore the confidence of our citizens,” President Boakai stated.  Noting, “The inclusion of Justice Kanneh brings new energy and perspective to the Bench, symbolizing the renewal of the Judiciary and its commitment to integrity, balance, and independence.”

Emphasizing the Judiciary’s constitutional role as the guardian of liberty and fairness, the President said that justice must remain impartial and accessible to all Liberians, regardless of status or background.

“When justice is blind to status and fair in its rulings, citizens grow to trust their institutions, and democracy flourishes,” he noted.

The President also addressed the public’s concerns regarding delayed trials, limited access to justice, and perceptions of undue influence, acknowledging that such issues require bold and sincere reform efforts. He welcomed the Chief Justice’s vision to modernize court administration, decentralize justice delivery, and improve efficiency across all levels of the Judiciary.

President Boakai emphasized his administration’s readiness to provide support toward improving court facilities, logistics, and training for judges and magistrates, while encouraging stronger collaboration among the Judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and the Liberia National Bar Association to build a more trusted justice system.

Linking the rule of law to national development, President Boakai stressed that justice and progress are inseparable, noting that investors and citizens alike must have confidence in the fairness and predictability of the law.

“A nation cannot advance where laws are ignored or where the weak have no recourse,” he said. “Our collective effort to reform and strengthen the Judiciary is part of building a Liberia that is just, peaceful, and prosperous.”

The President called on judges, magistrates, and lawyers to discharge their duties with honesty, humility, and courage, reminding them that the judicial robe represents service to the people, not privilege.

In closing, President Boakai urged cooperation among the three branches of government to ensure a justice system that is impartial, accessible, and worthy of public trust.

“Let us walk together—the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary—in pursuit of a justice system that serves all Liberians,” he said. “As we renew our commitment to justice, let us all think Liberia, love Liberia, and build Liberia.” He intoned.