The Liberian legal community is embroiled in controversy following accusations of facilitating unauthorized legal practice against the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh. The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has publicly condemned the Minister’s actions, specifically citing the appointment of unlicensed individuals to the position of City Solicitors. This practice, according to the LNBA, constitutes a blatant disregard for legal ethics and established national laws, specifically Title 17 of the Judiciary Law and Rule 5 of the Rules of Court. The LNBA argues that such appointments not only undermine the integrity and professionalism of the Liberian justice system but also erode public trust in the rule of law, a cornerstone of a functioning democracy. The controversy highlights a deeper concern regarding the qualification and competence of individuals entrusted with upholding and interpreting the law.
The LNBA President, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, articulated the Association’s concerns during the national observance of Law Day on May 2, 2025. He criticized the practice of appointing unqualified individuals to positions legally reserved for licensed legal professionals, arguing that it diminishes the value of legal education and lowers the standard of legal services provided to the public. Cllr. Varmah emphasized the importance of upholding the standards of the legal profession, stating that legal roles must be filled by individuals who meet the qualifications stipulated by law. He warned that failing to adhere to these standards sends a detrimental message to aspiring lawyers and erodes public confidence in the justice system, potentially leading to a decline in the quality of legal representation and adjudication across the country.
The LNBA’s condemnation extends beyond the Minister of Justice to include criticism of magistrates and judges who allegedly allow non-lawyers to practice law in Liberian courts. This practice, they argue, represents a severe breach of legal and ethical standards, further jeopardizing the integrity of the justice system. The LNBA’s stance underscores the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between qualified legal professionals and individuals lacking the necessary education, training, and licensing. Allowing unqualified individuals to operate within the legal system, they argue, creates a system vulnerable to misrepresentation, malpractice, and potentially unjust outcomes, ultimately harming the citizens seeking legal recourse.
The LNBA has called for immediate action to rectify the situation. They have urged the Ministry of Justice to cease the unlawful appointments and demonstrate a commitment to upholding legal and ethical standards. Furthermore, they have proposed a proactive solution: prioritize the recruitment of recent law school graduates to fill these positions. This recommendation addresses two key concerns. Firstly, it ensures that legal positions are occupied by qualified individuals, thereby upholding professional standards and improving the quality of legal services. Secondly, it provides employment opportunities for young legal professionals, mitigating the issue of unemployment within the legal community. This, according to the LNBA, would not only bolster the credibility of the justice system but also contribute to a more robust and effective legal landscape.
The theme of this year’s Law Day, “Justice, Accountability, and Inclusion: Building a Stronger Liberia Under the Rule of Law,” provides a poignant backdrop to the unfolding controversy. The event, held at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, brought together various stakeholders, including members of the bar, judiciary officials, civil society organizations, international partners, security sector representatives, and students. The event was marked by a symbolic parade, serving as a national reflection on Liberia’s legal and democratic values. The LNBA’s accusations against the Minister of Justice, occurring during this significant event, underscores the urgency and importance of addressing the issue of unauthorized legal practice in the country. The timing of the accusations adds weight to the LNBA’s call for immediate action and reinforces the message that upholding the rule of law is paramount to building a stronger Liberia.
The controversy surrounding the Minister of Justice’s alleged support of unauthorized legal practice has ignited a crucial debate within Liberia’s legal community. The LNBA’s strong stance against these practices highlights their commitment to protecting the integrity of the legal profession and ensuring that qualified individuals are entrusted with upholding the law. The call for prioritizing the employment of recent law school graduates offers a practical solution to address both the issue of unauthorized practice and the challenge of unemployment among young legal professionals. The outcome of this controversy holds significant implications for the future of Liberia’s justice system and its ability to serve the needs of its citizens effectively and equitably. The resolution will send a clear message about the nation’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is accessible to all.
