Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah has unveiled a forward-looking 10-pillar campaign platform geared toward strengthening the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) by empowering legal practitioners, modernizing the LNBA, and enhancing the LNBA’s role in promoting justice and good governance in Liberia.
According to a press release issued Thursday, November 21, 2024 by Team Varmah, “Cllr. Varmah, who is the arrowhead of Team Varmah, is keen on leading the LNBA by sealing victory as president at the 2024 Bar Convention, slated for November 30, 2024 in Ganta, Nimba County.”
Cllr. Varmah has meanwhile described the platform as a blueprint for a stronger and more inclusive bar. “The LNBA must lead by example, championing the rule of law and providing an enabling environment for legal professionals to thrive. Together we can transform the bar and elevate Liberia’s justice system,” Cllr. Varmah observed.
Team Varmah says its platform prioritizes the welfare of lawyers by pushing for a provident fund, ensuring uniform pay grades for government-employed lawyers, and seeking the expansion and remodeling of the Continuing Legal Education (CLE). The team underscored that, as part of efforts to upgrade the CLE, an institute for practical legal training will be established to ensure lawyers gain essential hands-on skills to excel in their practice.
The release noted, “To strengthen legal education, Cllr. Varmah will lead the LNBA in working with stakeholders to ensure the autonomy of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. Relevant synergies will also be leveraged to create opportunities for law students to participate in international exchange programs to broaden their perspectives and also work to facilitate international scholarships to advance the education of young deserving lawyers.”
Recognizing the importance of global competitiveness, Team Varmah proposes building international partnerships and facilitating knowledge exchange programs with legal organizations worldwide. This approach, they say, will enhance the capacity and visibility of Liberian lawyers on the global stage.
“Also, a key part of the platform is a proposal to amend the 1907 LNBA Act to strengthen the association through modernization of the LNBA financial system to enhance the payment of dues and ensure greater transparency. Infrastructure development is another priority, with plans to expedite the completion of the LNBA headquarters and enhance facilities to better serve members,” the release stated.
“At the same time, Team Varmah plans to remain committed to promoting the rule of law and advocacy for effective governance by fostering stronger relationships between the LNBA and the Judiciary, Legislative, and Executive branches of government. This will ensure that the Bar remains a leading voice in national policy discussions,” the team emphasized.
Team Varmah also highlighted intense advocacy to seek the welfare of key legal institutions, such as the National Association of Trial Judges and the Prosecutors Association, to ensure a balanced and effective justice system.
To increase the visibility of the bar and its members, the group disclosed that Cllr. Varmah plans to revamp the LNBA website and create social media channels that will include profiles of all licensed lawyers to foster networking and collaboration, noting that his leadership will also introduce an annual meritorious awards ceremony for judges and legal practitioners to recognize outstanding contributions to the legal profession.
