MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Chief Justice Francis Korkpor is warning citizens against casting aspersion on the reputation of judges, magistrates and lawyers.

Speaking at the opening of the Supreme Court October Term on Monday, October 11, 2021, Justice Korkpor said:” Such act has the tendency to derail the high confidence reposed in the Judiciary.

He also made reference to a recent article by an online media outlet in which it alleged that Criminal Court “A” Resident Judge, Roosevelt Willie traded justice for two-hundred-fifty-thousand Liberian Dollars.

Justice Korkpor said such allegation could only put judicial workers at risk with the public.

The Chief Justice also called for increased protection and respect t for justices, judges, magistrates and lawyers under the Judiciary.

The Chief Justice said threats against justices and judges will only undermine the rule of law, and setback the gains made in reforming the Judiciary.

Meanwhile, Justice Korkpor said courts operating in the Country are challenged, due to what he called the lac k of adequate court facilities.

He noted that a number of courts operating in Liberia are still being operated in private buildings, thus hampering the effectiveness of the courts.

Justice Korkpor also disclosed plans for the construction of a justice complex to house the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Court in Rivercess County.

He said the complex will also contain several facilities, including debt, magistrate, tax and traffic courts, as well as Sexual Offences Division.

The Chief Justice’s statement was contained in his charge during the opening of the Supreme Court of Liberia at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.

The consolidation of judicial actors at one location will enable speedy trial and easy access to justice in the area.

By: Zachariah Jigbeh