By Comfort M Johnson
MONROVIA, April 21 (LINA) – In a momentous gathering at the Temple of Justice, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, Chairperson of the Law Reform Commission of Liberia, heralded the validation of the Draft Family Court Bill as a transformative step in the nation’s quest for equitable justice.
“Today is not just another meeting; it is a defining moment in the evolution of justice in Liberia,” Varmah proclaimed, urging stakeholders to embrace the historic opportunity to reshape the legal landscape for families.
Emphasizing the urgent need for a specialized court to address the complexities of family-related issues, Varmah noted that for far too long, families have navigated a justice system ill-equipped to meet their unique needs.
Matters such as child custody, domestic violence, and family welfare have often been treated within a framework that, despite its good intentions, fails to adequately respond to the sensitivities required.
“Today, we say: that must change, and it will change,” he declared, igniting a sense of purpose among participants.
On April 9, 2026, the Law Reform Commission held an engaging consultation with key stakeholders to gather insights and recommendations, marking a pivotal step toward refining the Family Court Bill.
“That engagement was not a mere formality; it was a powerful demonstration of collective ownership, strengthening the draft significantly,” Varmah stated.
The validation session, he explained, would be the crucial stage where ideas would be tested for consensus, ensuring the final product is not merely a document, but a living instrument of justice.
In expressing gratitude, Cllr. Varmah extended appreciation to various partners involved in the process, from the Judiciary of Liberia for their guidance to the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection for their unwavering advocacy for vulnerable persons.
He particularly acknowledged the contributions of the Liberian National Bar Association, the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), and international development partners for their commitment to fostering inclusivity and sustained support throughout the reform initiative.
“The establishment of a Family Court signifies more than institutional reform; it is a paradigm shift,” he asserted, underscoring the aspiration for a justice system that is responsive, specialized, and centered on the needs of the people.
He emphasized how this initiative would amplify children’s voices, provide a protective shield for survivors of domestic violence, and support families in crisis with a system grounded in empathy and expertise.
The Chairperson further called on participants to engage critically and constructively with the draft, urging them to challenge assumptions and ensure that every provision aligns with the realities of Liberian society and international best practices.
“When we leave here, we must be confident that our final product is not only legally sound but socially transformative,” he emphasized.
“As the Chairperson of the Law Reform Commission, I am honored to lead this process,” Varmah remarked, reflecting on the collaborative spirit that has fueled their efforts thus far.
He urged all participants to recognize the importance of their contributions, stressing that history would remember this moment not just for convening but for acting decisively.
“We chose to build a system that protects families,” he said, inspiring attendees to prioritize justice for the most vulnerable and to champion reform over complacency.
“Let us seize this opportunity to validate not just a draft bill, but a vision for a stronger, fairer, and more compassionate Liberian justice system,” he concluded.