Liberia: Justice Wolokollie Urges Magistrates to Promote Peace

Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Jamesetta Howard-Wolokollie, urged magistrates in Maryland County to focus on peacebuilding. She emphasized the need for dispute resolution and warned against judicial misconduct that erodes public trust.

During the May Term opening of the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court in Harper, Justice Wolokollie highlighted magistrates' roles as peace agents. She stated that they should resolve community conflicts before they escalate. "Magistrates are not there to divide people," she said. "They are there to promote peace."

Justice Wolokollie mentioned that several magistrates face complaints with the Judicial Inquiry Commission (JIC). The Supreme Court takes these allegations seriously and can suspend or remove guilty magistrates. "When complaints are credible, some may be suspended for six months or a year," she explained. She stressed that those who violate the law should not remain in the system.

She also noted that magistrates with pending complaints might not be reappointed by the President. "If your name is on a complaint list, you will not be considered," she emphasized.

Justice Wolokollie encouraged residents to report judicial misconduct instead of staying silent. Many hesitate due to travel distance to Monrovia but must act to ensure accountability.

To address staff shortages in southeastern courts, she has urged law school graduates from nearby counties to return home as stipendiary magistrates. However, few from Maryland County have taken this opportunity despite decent salaries based on qualifications.

She cautioned magistrates against detaining individuals under external pressure. "These courts are for the community," she said. Magistrates should call parties together and resolve issues without resorting to jail unless necessary.

Resident Judge Nelson T. Tokpa pledged to uphold justice impartially at the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court. He stated his commitment to delivering justice without fear or favor.

Thomas B. Mawolo, Coordinator of the Maryland Civil Society Organization, raised concerns about pre-trial detainees at Harper Central Prison. He urged county attorneys and victims' families to pursue cases actively to avoid delays.

"Keeping pretrial detainees beyond their statutory period violates their rights," Mawolo said. He called for fast-tracking cases so justice can be served promptly.

Justice Wolokollie's remarks come amid rising rape cases in Maryland County's criminal docket. In February's court term, fifteen criminal cases were recorded: one murder, one attempted murder, and seven rapes; only one case was tried with an acquittal by jury verdicts.