Senator Moye pledged to advocate for increased budgetary allocations to the Public Defense Office, promising that the next national budget would include specific funding to bolster the program.
MONROVIA – The National Association of Public Defenders of Liberia (NAPDOL) on Thursday, January 9, commenced its 7th annual convention with a passionate call for comprehensive reforms to address the numerous challenges facing the organization.
By Victoria G. Wesseh
Reflecting on Challenges and Prospects
Speaking during the formal opening of the convention at the Temple of Justice, NAPDOL President Cllr. Tobey J. Raynes highlighted the theme: “The Role of Public Defenders in the Judiciary: Prospects and Challenges.” He noted that the convention aimed to encourage reflection and chart a path toward revitalizing the association.
Cllr. Raynes recounted the history of the Public Defense Program, which was launched in 2009 with substantial logistical and financial support from international partners. However, this support ended in 2017, leaving the program fully reliant on the national government.
He lamented that the withdrawal of international partners led to a sharp decline in the program’s operations, leaving public defenders without the resources needed to perform their duties effectively. Despite repeated appeals to the Judiciary for assistance, the association has struggled to overcome these challenges.
Delivering the keynote address, Bong County Senator Prince K. Moye emphasized the urgent need for increased legislative support for the Judiciary’s budget. He stressed that the Judiciary, as an independent branch of government, should not have to lobby the Legislature for adequate funding.
Senator Moye, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance, noted that constitutional mandates require the Legislature to ensure the Judiciary is well-resourced to sustain Liberia’s democracy.
“I was unaware that the Public Defense Program, which was initially supported by international partners, is no longer receiving such support. Politicians, including myself, have been major beneficiaries of the legal aid services provided by public defenders,” Moye said.
He praised public defenders for ensuring equal access to justice, citing examples from Bong County, where their work had a significant impact. However, he lamented the lack of support that has curtailed their efforts in recent years.
Senator Moye pledged to advocate for increased budgetary allocations to the Public Defense Office, promising that the next national budget would include specific funding to bolster the program.
“Since assuming the chairmanship of Ways, Means, and Finance, we have increased the Judiciary’s budget. Moving forward, we will ensure dedicated funding for public defense,” he assured.
Judiciary Pledges Support
Representing the Judiciary, Cllr. William Kollie, Assistant Court Administrator, acknowledged the difficulties faced by public defenders and reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to addressing these issues.
Cllr. Kollie noted that the Judiciary’s five-year strategic plan includes provisions to strengthen the Public Defense Program. He pointed out that under President Joseph N. Boakai’s administration, the Judiciary’s budget has seen an increase, allowing for improvements such as the procurement of vehicles for judges.
He assured public defenders that similar support would soon extend to their offices. “We recognize the indispensable role you play in the legal system. Without public defenders, the system cannot function effectively,” Cllr. Kollie said.
He announced plans to recruit 30 additional public defenders over the next five years to enhance the program’s capacity.
Cllr. Kollie also underscored the constitutional mandate under Article 21(i), which guarantees legal aid for defendants who cannot afford counsel. He urged public defenders to remain committed and patient, assuring them that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed.
“The Judiciary is working within a strategic plan based on the availability of funds. We are determined to address the challenges of the Public Defense Office and provide the necessary support to ensure equal access to justice,” he concluded.
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