MONROVIA – The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has called for calm and strict adherence to the rule of law as the nation awaits the highly anticipated decision of the Honorable Supreme Court in the legal standoff between House Speaker Fonati Koffa and Representative Richard Nagbe Koon, along with members of the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday, April 11, 2025, and signed by Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, National President of the LNBA, the Bar urged all parties and their supporters to exercise restraint, stressing that the judiciary must be given the space to deliver its ruling free of intimidation, pressure, or undue influence.
The LNBA, which serves as the statutory body charged with defending the integrity of the legal system, expressed deep concern over inflammatory rhetoric and growing public tension surrounding the pending judgment. It condemned all threats, counter-threats, and provocative statements emanating from both sides of the political divide, warning that such actions only serve to erode public confidence in the nation’s democratic institutions.
“Our peace, democracy, and institutional stability are underpinned by the respect we accord our laws and legal institutions,” the LNBA asserted. “We therefore urge everyone to be law-abiding and to conduct themselves responsibly, both now and after the Court renders its decision.”
As speculation mounts over possible Executive interference in the Supreme Court’s handling of the matter, the LNBA reaffirmed the constitutional guarantee of the separation of powers and underscored the Judiciary’s role as an independent and co-equal branch of government. The Bar emphasized that the Supreme Court must be allowed to carry out its constitutional mandate without interference or manipulation.
While acknowledging the public’s right to express opinions on national issues, the LNBA warned against the spread of premature conclusions and unsubstantiated claims that risk undermining trust in the judiciary. The statement made it clear that any credible evidence of interference in the judicial process will be met with a firm response from the legal community.
“The integrity and independence of the Judiciary are essential pillars of our democracy,” the statement continued. “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.”
As political actors and civil society groups brace for the Court’s ruling, the LNBA called on all stakeholders, including the media, to avoid prejudicial commentary or conduct that could compromise the outcome or tarnish the image of the Court.
The Bar concluded by reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rule of law and preserving peace in Liberia, vowing to remain a vigilant guardian of constitutional governance.
