By Stephen G. Fellajuah
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has nominated Associate Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay as the next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, succeeding Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh, whose tenure ends as she reaches the constitutional retirement age of 70.
The nomination was made in accordance with Article 54(c) of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, which grants the President the authority to appoint the Chief Justice, Associate Justices, and Judges of Subordinate Courts. Additionally, the nomination aligns with Article 72(b) of the Constitution, which mandates retirement of Justices upon reaching the age of seventy.
In a nomination letter addressed to the Liberian Senate, President Boakai described Justice Gbeisay as a “distinguished jurist [who] has demonstrated exemplary integrity, profound legal acumen, and commitment to upholding the rule of law and the Constitution.”
The Liberian leader called on the Honorable Liberian Senate to “expeditiously consider and confirm this nomination.”
Justice Yuoh, who turns 70 recently, concludes a distinguished judicial career marked by trailblazing leadership, reform advocacy, and unwavering commitment to judicial independence.
Her departure signals the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter under Justice Gbeisay, a jurist who has risen steadily through Liberia’s legal ranks.
Justice Gbeisay’s judicial service includes Relieving Judge (2015), appointed after nomination and confirmation in 2014. Associate Justice of the Supreme Court (October 2022), served with distinction until current elevation
Known for his strong legal reasoning, case management efficiency, and measured temperament on the bench. His nomination comes at a time when public confidence in Liberia’s justice system is undergoing critical scrutiny, and his leadership will be closely watched for its ability to uphold rule of law and judicial autonomy.
Chief Justice Yuoh’s tenure (2022–2025) was defined by a mix of structural reforms, staunch advocacy, and resistance to political interference. Highlights of her legacy include judicial reforms & infrastructure.
She broke ground on a $3.2 million judicial complex in Maryland County. Completed court construction projects in Rivercess County, and launched a Five-Year Strategic Plan (2024–2029) to modernize Liberia’s judiciary.
Youh championed digital case management and judicial financial autonomy. Fought to improve access to justice for women and children, especially in underserved areas, as well as strengthened the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) as a founding member, and oversaw the enactment of laws ensuring financial independence for the judiciary. Though confronted with underfunding and executive-legislative inertia over court reforms, she maintained impartiality amid political pressure, prioritizing the judiciary’s integrity.
The transition from Chief Justice Yuoh to Justice Gbeisay marks a pivotal moment in Liberian judicial history. As the third woman to serve as Chief Justice, Yuoh’s legacy of reform, mentorship, and resilience leaves deep institutional imprints.
President Boakai’s nomination of Gbeisay is expected to be a crucial test of Liberia’s commitment to judicial continuity, independence, and reform.
As the nation looks forward, many will reflect on Chief Justice Yuoh’s impactful journey and look to Justice Gbeisay to build upon the foundation she leaves behind.
