Published: January 25, 2025
TEMPLE OF JUSTICE, Monrovia – Judge George W. Smith has rejected calls by embattled Speaker Jonathan Fonati Kofa’s lawyers for an investigation into alleged threats from the majority bloc, insisting the trial will proceed despite claims of intimidation against him.
The minority bloc, represented by Cllr. Saymah Syrenius Cephas and supported by former Associate Justice Kabineh J’aneh, alleged that members of the majority bloc, led by Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, publicly threatened to impeach Judge Smith if his rulings did not favor them. According to Cephas, the threats were made in public gatherings and on radio, compromising the judiciary’s independence and safety.
Cllr. Cephas argued that the alleged threats undermined judicial integrity, invoking Article 73 of the 1986 Constitution, which shields judges from arrest, investigation, or interference over decisions rendered in their official capacity. He called for an investigation to verify the claims and ensure the court’s independence.
In response, the majority bloc’s lawyer, Cllr. H. Varney Sherman, dismissed the accusations as groundless and irrelevant to the case. He contended that the Constitution already provides immunity for judges, and any statements made by members of the majority bloc carried no legal weight. Sherman further argued that the minority bloc’s actions were a diversionary tactic to delay the proceedings.
Cllr. Sherman also stated that the declaratory judgment filed by the Kofa-led bloc lacked substance, stating, “The minority bloc’s claims are meritless, and the motion to dismiss deserves immediate attention to allow the court to focus on the core issue at hand.”
Judge Smith addressed the submissions, acknowledging the inherent dangers of judicial service but affirming his commitment to upholding the law. He revealed that he and his family had received personal threats, including threats to burn his house and harm his family.
“Threats are part of the burden of this office,” Judge Smith stated. “Suspending trials because of intimidation would paralyze the judiciary and prevent the court from fulfilling its constitutional mandate. The adjudication of cases takes precedence.”
The judge noted the minority bloc’s Bill of Information but ruled that the trial would move forward without delay. He reserved his decision on the majority bloc’s motion to dismiss for Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11 a.m.
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