The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) says it has taken due notice of the public interest surrounding the pending decision of the Supreme Court in the case: Hon. Fonati Koffa et al. versus Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon and members of the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives, but calls on all stakeholders, including members of the public, political actors, and media institutions, to refrain from making statements that may prejudice the on-going judicial process or tarnish the image of the Supreme Court.
The LNBA said it remains resolute in its role as a watchdog of the legal system and a promoter of Constitutional governance, and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, the independence of the Judiciary, and the preservation of peace and stability in the Republic.
In a release issued over the weekend and signed by its National President, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, the LNBA unequivocally condemned any form or plan of violence, whether before or after the issuance of the Supreme Court’s opinion. “While it is the right of every citizen to disagree with a judicial decision, such disagreement must be expressed through lawful, constructive, and peaceful means. The integrity and independence of the Judiciary are essential pillars of our democracy. Accordingly, we emphasize that, while you may critique, analyze, or even dissect the Court’s decision in the spirit of democratic engagement, we are all under a national duty to respect and abide by whatever ruling the Court may render,” the LNBA release observed.
The LNBA said it has taken note of growing public discourse and speculation suggesting interference by the Executive Branch of Government in the work of the Supreme Court of Liberia, particularly concerning the pending ruling in the Bill of Information currently before the Court.
However, the LNBA reminded the public that the Constitution of Liberia guarantees the separation of powers among the three branches of government, with the Judiciary serving as an independent and co-equal branch. The Supreme Court, the legal body said, as the highest arbiter of justice, must be allowed to discharge its Constitutional mandate without fear, favor, or undue influence from any quarter.
“While the LNBA recognizes the right of citizens to express opinions on national issues, it strongly cautions against premature conclusions or narratives that risk undermining public confidence in the Judiciary. Allegations of Executive interference, if not substantiated, may serve to erode the rule of law and compromise the integrity of judicial outcomes.
“The Bar is closely monitoring developments surrounding this matter and remains committed to upholding the rule of law, defending the independence of the Judiciary, and ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done. Should there be credible evidence of interference or un-Constitutional conduct, the LNBA will not hesitate to speak out forcefully in defense of Liberia’s democratic institutions,” the release continued.
In light of this, and consistent with the commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance, the LNBA has requested that the general public remains calm and peaceful as everyone awaits the considered opinion of the Honorable Supreme Court. The LNBA emphasized that the Judiciary must be given the space to render its judgment free of pressure, intimidation, or undue influence from any quarter.
The Bar also called upon both parties to the dispute: the Majority and Minority Blocs of the House of Representatives, and their respective supporters, to act with maturity, restraint, and in a manner that is consistent with democratic values and the rule of law.
The LNBA then categorically condemned all threats, counter-threats, and inflammatory statements from any side, noting that such actions serve no purpose but to undermine public confidence in the judicial process and the democracy.
The Bar reminded all citizens and political actors that peace, democracy, and institutional stability are underpinned by the respect accorded the laws and legal institutions. “We therefore urge everyone to be law-abiding and to conduct themselves responsibly, both now and after the court renders its decision,” the LNBA release noted.