George Weah warns against weakening of judiciary in Africa

Former Liberian President George Weah cautioned during the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt that Africa's democracy could be jeopardized if judicial institutions are undermined and fail to fulfill their responsibilities. Weah highlighted the essential role of the legal system in upholding citizens' rights and freedoms, urging lawyers and judges to remain neutral in the administration of justice.

Weah emphasized that the independent judiciary, protected by a fearless judicial bar, is vital for any serious nation. He stated that threats to democracy extend beyond armed conflicts or defeated leaders failing to relinquish power; they also arise from weakening judicial institutions that hinder their ability to carry out duties.

The ex-leader argued that a nation cannot claim to be democratic while corrupt, collaborating with judges to undermine the rule of law and manipulate society. He warned against such governments as a grave threat to democracy.

Earlier, Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara urged judges to consider the broader impact of their judgments on the polity, stressing that law and order, national development, and quality justice are interconnected. He stressed the need for judges to ensure the truth prevails without bias, regardless of parties' status or affiliations.

Governor Fubara emphasized that courts are not only for resolving social disputes but also serve as a refuge for all, including the general populace, to seek justice, accountability, human dignity, and the enforcement of legal and constitutional rights. He called for judges to be impartial guardians of democracy, rule of law, and peace, rather than mere apologists or conformists.