-If Confirmed as LRC Chairman
By: G. Bennie Bravo Johnson
Chairman-designate of the Law Reform Commission (LRC), Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, has pledged to lead sweeping reforms aimed at modernizing Liberia’s legal system if confirmed by the Liberian Senate. Appearing before the Senate for his confirmation hearing on Thursday, Varmah outlined a five-point agenda centered on legal modernization, access to justice, and institutional strengthening of the Commission.
Addressing the Liberian Senate on Monday, October 27, 2025, Cllr. Varmah thanked President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. for nominating him and expressed appreciation to the Senate for the opportunity to appear before it. He said the Law Reform Commission remains a vital institution in ensuring that Liberia’s laws are relevant, just, and reflective of the needs of the population.
“The Law Reform Commission was created to ensure that our laws remain relevant, accessible, just, and reflective of the values and aspirations of the Liberian people,” he said, noting that law reform should serve as a tool for justice and development rather than merely changing legal text.
Outlining his priorities, Varmah said his leadership would focus on reviewing and harmonizing Liberia’s existing laws, many of which he described as outdated or inconsistent with the Constitution and modern-day realities. He said the reform process would be inclusive and aligned with the nation’s development agenda and international obligations.
He further emphasized expanding access to justice, especially for vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and those in rural communities. Varmah pledged to simplify legal language and translate essential laws into user-friendly formats to ensure ordinary citizens can understand them.
Cllr. Varmah also underscored the importance of public participation in law-making and committed to fostering collaboration with the Judiciary, Legislature, Liberia National Bar Association, civil society, academia, and international development partners.
“For the Commission to deliver on its mandate, it must be adequately resourced and institutionally strong,” he added, promising to strengthen research capacity, promote transparency, and attract skilled legal professionals to the institution.
Varmah told the Senate that his previous roles as President of both the Liberian National Bar Association and the West African Bar Association have prepared him for the task ahead. He pledged to serve with integrity and impartiality, if confirmed.
“I respectfully seek your approval so that together, we may advance the cause of justice and ensure that our legal system reflects the hopes and needs of the Liberian people,” he concluded.
