Published: May 2, 2025
Monrovia – Chief Judge of the Commercial Court, Eva Mappy-Morgan, has called for a stronger push to fully integrate technology into Liberia’s justice system, stressing that modernization is essential to reinforcing the rule of law.
Speaking at the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) convention held at the Temple of Justice, Judge Mappy-Morgan highlighted the stark difference between outdated judicial systems—hampered by slow computers and manual record-keeping—and modernized courts equipped with electronic filing and digital record systems.
“Imagine how much more efficient justice would become with the right technology,” she said, emphasizing that digital transformation is critical for upholding the rule of law.
Founded on February 10, 1994, during Liberia’s civil conflict, AFELL is a non-profit, non-governmental, and non-political organization. Its mission is to advocate for the protection, promotion, and advancement of the rights of women, children, and indigent individuals.
Judge Mappy-Morgan emphasized that building a stronger justice system is not only the responsibility of institutions but also of every citizen. She urged Liberians to respect everyday laws, such as traffic rules, police directives, and public order guidelines.
“Strengthening the rule of law is within our grasp,” she noted. “By simply doing the jobs we are paid to do and respecting the laws that protect our rights, we collectively enforce justice.”
She condemned mob violence and the spread of misinformation, urging citizens to refrain from using public platforms to spread lies and incite hatred.
“When wronged, the solution is not mob justice,” she stressed. “Our civilization depends on upholding human rights, dignity, and the rule of law.”
Judge Mappy-Morgan praised AFELL for its continued dedication to promoting access to justice, especially for women, girls, and the elderly.
“We commend AFELL for its steadfast advocacy on behalf of women, girls, and the aging population,” she said.
The convention, held under the theme “Rising Together to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice,” gathered legal professionals, government representatives, and international partners to address challenges facing women and children in Liberia’s justice sector.
The newly elected 2025 AFELL leadership team includes:
President: Cllr. Philomena Tugbe Williams
1st Vice President: Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley
2nd Vice President: Cllr. Evelyn Lah Gongloe
Secretary General: Cllr. Sundaiway N. Amegashie
Treasurer: Cllr. Isabel B. Diggs
Chaplain: Cllr. Tonieh Talery Wiles
The convention also featured a ceremony recognizing pioneering female legal professionals for their contributions to AFELL and Liberia’s justice system.
Lifetime achievement awards were presented to distinguished figures such as Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Youh, Associate Justices Jamesetta Howard Wolokollie and Ceaineh D. Clinton Johnson, Former Associate Justice Felicia Coleman, Former Chief Justice Francis Johnson Allison, Cllr. Deweh Gray, Cllr. Elizabeth B. Nelson, and Cllr. Pearl Brown Bull, among others.
Excellence in Leadership Awards were given to Cllr. Lois Lewis Brutus, Cllr. Teplah P. Reeves, Cllr. Sumo Izetta Wesley, and Atty. Vivian Neil, among others.
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