Lawyers demand independent probe

By Lincoln G. Peters 

The leadership of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has warned the Government of Liberia that the savagery and callous act against former Chief Justice Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott must not be treated as business as usual.

The LNBA has demanded an independent and impartial investigation in the case, saying it’s the only adherence to the principle of the rule of law that guarantees the peaceful co-existence of all Liberians. 

The LNBA released a statement Thursday evening, 23 February 2023 under the signature of the National Secretary General Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah categorically condemned the callous and brutal attack on the home of Cllr. Scott.

The Bar said the attack reportedly led to the death of Cllr. Scott’s daughter and several family members were hospitalized.

“The LNBA seriously cautions the Liberian government to take all necessary steps to prevent acts of motivated violence and refrain from inflammatory actions that could incite similar attacks or deter people from enjoying their civil liberties ahead of the crucial 2023 election,” the Bar said. 

“The Bar assures all of its commitment to fully cooperate with the relevant actors to keep the peace by ensuring that the Liberians democracy is kept afloat,” LNBA stated further. 

The statement quoted Cllr. Varmah as describing the alleged attack as outrageous and a pure act of savagery.

“The LNBA is utterly dismayed over [the] such cruel act of violence which has repeatedly marred the political landscape and gravely threatens the civil liberty, freedom of expression and association as guaranteed under the 1986 Constitution,” he explained.

The LNBA noted that the attacks are intended to harass and intimidate prominent citizens and members of the public in the months leading to the upcoming elections and could have a chilling effect throughout the country.

The LNBA insists that the Liberian government is under obligation by law to protect life and properties and must ensure that the needful is done consistent with Article 20 (a) of the Constitution.

The LNBA pointed out that Article 20 (a) provides that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, security of the person, property, privilege, or any other rights except as the outcome of a hearing judgment consistent with the provision laid down in the 1986 Constitution by due process. 

” Finally, the LNBA is calling on the Liberian government to immediately and unconditionally launch a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to Justice in a fair trial before a court of competent jurisdiction.”