By Vaye Lepolu
MONROVIA – The Vice President of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley, has called for renewed commitment to fairness, equity, and legal reform during a national legal convention hosted by the Public Defender Association.
The convention, held under the theme “Enhancing Access to Justice: The Protection of Rights in the Criminal Justice System,” brought together legal experts, policymakers, and advocates from across the country.
Speaking on behalf of AFELL President Cllr. Philomena T. Williams, the organization’s Board of Directors, and its members, Cllr. Kelley emphasized the need for collaboration among legal professionals to strengthen Liberia’s justice system. She described the convention as a vital platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and developing solutions to ensure justice is accessible to all citizens.
Cllr. Kelley highlighted the role of public defenders as essential to upholding due process and guaranteeing fair representation, particularly for vulnerable populations. She urged legal stakeholders to advocate for increased resources and policies that empower public defenders to carry out their duties effectively.
The AFELL Vice President also acknowledged the contributions of female legal professionals in advancing gender equity within the sector. She noted ongoing efforts by the association to promote inclusive workplaces, mentor emerging lawyers, and encourage women to assume leadership roles in the legal profession.
“Our mission is not only to support justice but to ensure that women are equally represented and empowered within the legal system,” Cllr. Kelley said.
She concluded by urging convention participants to reaffirm their dedication to the rule of law and pursue reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive and responsive justice system. Quoting Proverbs 31:8–9, she called on legal practitioners to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” and defend the rights of the poor and vulnerable.
