The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has raised urgent concerns following the recent release of the United States Government’s 2024 Country Report on Human Rights Practices for Liberia.
By Lincoln G. Peters
Monrovia, August 15, 2025: The report, as in previous years, documents credible accounts of serious human rights violations, including arbitrary or unlawful killings, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, and harsh and life-threatening prison conditions.
The report further laid bare serious concerns regarding judicial independence, severe restrictions on freedom of expression and the press, including harassment of journalists, Widespread corruption within all branches of government, Gender-based violence, including domestic and sexual violence, and harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation/cutting and discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ persons; and restrictions on workers’ freedom of association.
According to the LNBA in a statement dated Thursday, August 14, 2025, under the signs of its National Secretary General, Cllr. Elisha T. J. Forkeyoh said that it notes with grave concern that the report once again records the Government’s failure to take credible steps to investigate and hold accountable officials accused of serious abuses. This continued pattern of impunity undermines the rule of law, erodes public trust in state institutions, and violates Liberia’s obligations under domestic and international law.
The LNBA, therefore, calls on the Government of Liberia to prioritize the prosecution of all alleged perpetrators of human rights abuses, regardless of position or political affiliation.
Strengthen judicial independence and protect courts from political interference and improve prison conditions to meet minimum international standards.
“Protect and promote press freedom, ensuring that journalists can operate without fear of reprisal. Combat corruption decisively, with transparent investigations and enforcement of anti-graft laws; and implement comprehensive measures to address gender-based violence, discrimination, and other forms of social injustice.” The LNBA said.
The LNBA, however, reaffirms its commitment to working with all stakeholders, including civil society, international partners, and government institutions, to ensure that Liberia becomes a state where human rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled for all.
“Liberia’s democratic progress cannot be sustained if serious human rights violations are ignored year after year. We must break the cycle of impunity and build a justice system that commands the trust of every Liberian,” the statement concluded. -Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
