Monrovia, Liberia – Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr. has appointed a trained and only visually impaired lawyer to serve as a Public Defender. The appointee, Atty. Joshua B. Shadrack, will serve as a Defender at the Supreme Court, marking a historic first for the legal profession in Liberia.
The appointment was announced during the 2026 Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability, organized by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development. A keynote address was delivered on behalf of the Chief Justice by Atty. Edwina D. Vakun, Chief of Office Staff. The milestone underscores a central theme of the address: that democracy is strongest when all citizens—regardless of physical ability or social status—feel seen, heard, and valued.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Justice, Atty. Vakun reaffirmed that Liberia’s democracy is anchored in the rule of law, citing the landmark 1937 case *Wolo v. Wolo*, which defines due process as a system ensuring fair hearing, proper notice, and an opportunity for all parties to be heard before judgment is rendered. These principles, the address noted, remain central to building public trust and sustaining democratic governance.
While highlighting progress, the Judiciary acknowledged ongoing challenges, including corruption concerns, delays in case handling, limited access to justice in rural areas, and feelings of exclusion among youth and vulnerable populations. The Chief Justice stressed that these issues do not represent failure, but rather the need for continuous reform and vigilance.
To address these concerns, the Judiciary has introduced a series of reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency. These include:
– Strengthening jury management systems
– Conducting financial and personnel audits
– Increasing the appointment of women magistrates
– Establishing a Judicial Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability Unit
– Introducing digital platforms and hotlines for reporting misconduct
– Expanding judicial infrastructure and reducing case backlogs
These efforts are intended to build a justice system that is more accessible and responsive to the needs of all Liberians. The address concluded with a call for collective action, emphasizing that sustaining democracy requires commitment from all sectors of society—government institutions, civil society, and citizens alike.
