The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) has recommitted itself to the pursuit of gender equality and children’s rights, vowing to intensify advocacy and legal representation for Liberia’s most vulnerable populations. During a recent induction ceremony at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia, re-elected President Cllr. Philomena Tugbe Williams outlined AFELL’s ambitious agenda, emphasizing the organization’s unwavering dedication to eradicating gender-based violence, promoting women’s equitable participation in all spheres of life, and upholding the rule of law. This renewed commitment comes at a critical juncture for Liberia, where despite some progress, significant gender disparities persist and the rights of women and children remain under threat. The ceremony served as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for the future, highlighting the urgent need for continued vigilance and collaborative efforts to achieve lasting change.
Cllr. Williams underscored the alarming prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, particularly the horrific practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Decrying FGM as a violent and harmful act with no justification in tradition, she announced AFELL’s intention to collaborate with the Ministry of Gender and the Women’s Legislative Caucus to push for a comprehensive ban without exemptions. This bold stance reflects AFELL’s commitment to dismantling harmful cultural practices and ensuring the physical and psychological well-being of Liberian women and girls. The organization recognizes that achieving gender equality requires addressing deeply ingrained societal norms and challenging practices that perpetuate discrimination and violence.
The protection of children’s rights also forms a central pillar of AFELL’s agenda. Cllr. Williams expressed deep concern over the widespread neglect and abuse of children, noting that even supposedly safe spaces like schools, churches, and homes have become sites of trauma for many minors. AFELL pledged to expand civic education initiatives focused on the 2011 Children’s Law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while simultaneously applying pressure on the Justice Ministry to ensure the prosecution of child abusers. This multi-pronged approach underscores AFELL’s commitment to both prevention and accountability in addressing the complex issue of child abuse.
Addressing the issue of juvenile justice, Cllr. Williams acknowledged the establishment of Montserrado County’s Juvenile Court as a significant milestone. However, she also criticized the ongoing practice of detaining minors alongside adult criminals in deplorable conditions, highlighting the urgent need for rehabilitation-focused facilities that adhere to international standards. She argued that young offenders require support and guidance, not punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of a restorative justice approach that prioritizes rehabilitation and reintegration.
Cllr. Williams’ emphasis on the rule of law transcended specific issues, serving as a foundational principle for AFELL’s overall mission. She cautioned against the politicization of legal disputes, asserting that the law applies equally to everyone, regardless of position or power. This unwavering commitment to legal principles is further reflected in AFELL’s advocacy for increased female representation within the judiciary. Cllr. Williams praised the three female justices currently serving on the Supreme Court and urged President Boakai to appoint another woman upon Chief Justice Yuoh’s retirement.
The induction ceremony was not only a platform for outlining AFELL’s future plans but also an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations that have been instrumental in advancing the cause of justice in Liberia. Cllr. Williams expressed gratitude to AFELL’s partners, including the Clooney Foundation for Justice, DIGNITY, OHCHR, and UN Women, for their support in enabling the organization to assist over 5,000 women and children between 2022 and 2024. Tributes were also paid to influential figures in the Liberian legal system, including Chief Justice Yuoh and Associate Justices Wolokollie and Clinton Johnson, who were honored with lifetime achievement awards. A poignant moment of silence was observed in memory of the late Cllr. Zeor Bernard, a former president of AFELL, whose tireless advocacy left an indelible mark on the fight for justice in Liberia. The ceremony, attended by prominent figures in the legal and international development communities, served as a powerful testament to AFELL’s enduring commitment to building a more just and equitable society for all Liberians. The newly sworn-in leadership team, which includes Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley as 1st Vice President and Cllr. Evelyn Lah Gongloe as 2nd Vice President, alongside Secretary General Cllr. Sundaiway Amegashie, Treasurer Cllr. Isabel Diggs, and Chaplain Cllr. Tonieh Wiles, assumes their responsibilities with a clear mandate to carry forward AFELL’s crucial work. Their collective experience and dedication, coupled with the ongoing support of partners and the unwavering commitment of AFELL’s members, promise a bright future for the organization and its continued pursuit of justice for women and children in Liberia.
