Monrovia- May 2, 2025: In a notable speech during the Law Day celebrations today, former Chief Justice Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott publicly criticized the President of the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) for his recent comments condemning a decision made by the Supreme Court of Liberia.

Delivering her keynote address at the International Law Day event at the Ministerial Complex in Congo-Town, Cllr. Scott highlighted growing apprehensions within the legal sector regarding the perceived politicization of the Bar and its duty to protect the judiciary’s integrity.

She labeled the LNBA President’s remarks as inappropriate and concerning, particularly in light of the Bar’s obligation to support and defend the judicial system. “With all due respect,” she remarked, “that statement, especially from the current President of the Liberia National Bar Association, is not only inappropriate but also deeply alarming.”

Cllr. Scott stressed that the LNBA, as the professional organization responsible for maintaining the ethics and integrity of the legal field, must not be perceived as undermining the authority of the Supreme Court, which is the highest judicial body in Liberia.

She pointed out that public dissent from the Bar’s leadership could jeopardize public trust in the judiciary and undermine the fundamental principles of constitutional governance and the rule of law. Citing a Liberian proverb, she said, “You cannot dress the devil in private and undress it in public,” implying a contradiction in the Bar’s position—privately upholding the Court’s authority while publicly questioning it when its decisions are unpopular.

She reaffirmed the Supreme Court’s constitutional role as the ultimate interpreter of the law, stating, “The Constitution does not speak for itself—the Court articulates its meaning. We, as lawyers, serve as its voice.”

In a direct challenge, Cllr. Scott questioned why the LNBA President did not express these concerns through appropriate legal or consultative channels before the ruling was issued. “Why raise this issue now, in public, after the process has concluded?” she asked.

Scott cautioned that if the Bar allows itself to become entangled in partisan politics or public opinion, it risks compromising its independence and shifting from a professional organization into a political one—a transition she argued the architects of Liberia’s legal framework intentionally sought to avoid.

She concluded her address with a strong appeal for reflection and solidarity within the legal community, urging, “Let us exemplify unity under the rule of law, rather than division.”

Cllr. Scott’s comments have ignited significant discussion within Liberia’s legal and civic circles, raising important questions about the Bar Association’s function in a democratic society and the ethical limits of legal leadership.

As the legal community marks Law Day—a day dedicated to reaffirming justice and the rule of law, including accountability and transparency—former Justice Scott’s statements serve as a timely reminder of the delicate balance between free speech and institutional respect, especially concerning the nation’s top legal entities.