By Lincoln G. Peters
The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) kicks off its Annual General Assembly in Monrovia today, 31 March 2023, with the 2023 presidential and legislative elections topping its agenda.
The Annual General Assembly is held under the theme: “Beyond Rhetoric and Impunity: Law, Governance and 2023 Elections- the basis for Democratic Necessity in Liberia.”
The General Assembly is in keeping with the LNBA’s Constitution, beginning Friday, 31 March through Saturday, 1 April 2023 at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
The program is expected to be graced by several distinguished personalities, including members of the diplomatic corps, and civil society organizations.
The keynote speaker for this year’s event is Christine N. Umutoni, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Liberia.
According to a press release dated 30 March 2023, the General Assembly will kick off with an opening statement by LNBA President Cllr. Sylvester D. Rennie.
The statement under the signature of LNBA Secretary General Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah disclosed that the program will also have a special statement from the Supreme Court of Liberia to be delivered by Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh.
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Following the keynote address, members of the LNBA will participate in several continuing legal education (CLE) sessions during the two days of the Assembly.
“On the first day, Friday, March 31, there will be two CLE sessions on topics ranging from election dispute, filing, hearing, and adjudication,” the release said.
“This will be delivered by former Associate Justice Micah Wilkins Wright and Cllr. Arthur Tamba Johnson.
Accordingly, trends and outlook of the Supreme Court in the adjudication of elections matters will be delivered by former Minister of Justice Cllr. Benedict Sannoh.
Meanwhile, the LNBA pointed out that on the last day, Saturday, April 1, there will be a parade from the Kailondo Gas Station opposite the SOS Clinic in Congo Town.
The Chief Justice and associate justices will be joined by the LNBA executives, judges, magistrates, lawyers, and law students to parade from Tubman Boulevard to the Ministerial Complex.
The LNBA explained that following the parade, the lawyers will also attend another CLE session on the topics, constitutional and statutory steps preparatory to the conduct of elections.
It will be delivered by former Associate Justice Kabineh M. Ja’neh.
The Statement indicated that there will be a business session where lawyers will deliberate on pertinent issues affecting the legal profession.
Following that, they will carve out a practical resolution for adherence to the rule of law in Liberia.
“The Assembly will be climaxed by sporting activities at the Voker Mission Sports Pitch around the Paynesville Town Hall,” the release said.
Lawyers will engage in football and kickball exercises.
