The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr., has taken a significant step toward inclusion within the country’s justice system by appointing Liberia’s first trained visually impaired lawyer as a Public Defender.
The announcement was highlighted during the 2026 Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability, organized by NAYMOTE Partners for Democratic Development, where the Chief of Office Staff to the Chief Justice, Edwina Vakun, spoke on behalf of the judiciary.
Vakun described the appointment as more than symbolic, noting that it reflects a deliberate effort to ensure Liberia’s democracy is not only representative in principle but genuinely inclusive in practice. She stressed that the active participation of women, young people, and marginalized communities remains critical to strengthening democratic governance.
According to her, when citizens feel recognized and included, they are more likely to trust and defend democratic institutions. She emphasized that inclusion fosters ownership of the system, which is essential for its sustainability.
Reaffirming the judiciary’s stance on governance, Vakun underscored that accountability remains central to a functioning democracy. She warned that without accountability, public confidence in institutions declines, weakening the very foundation of governance. She added that accountability ensures power is exercised responsibly and transparently, always in the interest of the people.
She further stated that all actors—ranging from public officials to ordinary citizens—must remain subject to the law. In her view, accountability serves as a safeguard that protects the credibility and legitimacy of state institutions.
Highlighting the judiciary’s guiding principles, Vakun pointed to the enforcement of court rulings, adherence to due process, impartiality in justice delivery, and citizen engagement through mechanisms such as the jury system.
However, she acknowledged that the justice sector continues to face serious challenges, including corruption concerns, delays in court proceedings, limited access to justice in rural areas, and instances where court orders are ignored.
She described these issues as clear indications that sustained reforms, vigilance, and a renewed commitment to democratic values are necessary to strengthen Liberia’s legal and institutional framework.
