MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Supreme Court of Liberia has reiterated its critical role in sustaining democracy, emphasizing the rule of law, accountability, and citizen participation.

The remarks of Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay were conveyed by Attorney Edwina Vakun, Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chief Justice, at the third Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Monrovia.

Chief Justice Gbeisay stressed that the judiciary must remain independent and impartial, adding that “Without the rule of law, democracy cannot function.”

He said accountability is the “lifeblood of democracy” and that weak oversight erodes public trust and institutional credibility.

The Supreme Court boss highlighted Liberia’s democratic progress, from post-conflict recovery to peaceful transfers of power.

He said, “Democracy is not self-sustaining; it requires commitment, inclusion, and respect for the rule of law.”

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Gbeisay has called on all Liberians to take ownership of the country’s democratic future.

Also speaking, Naymote Partners for Democratic Development Deputy Program Director, Joshua Cleon, said strengthening democracy in Liberia requires deliberate action.

Director Cleon stressed the need for strong institutions, respect for the rule of law, and active citizen participation.

He described the summit as a platform for turning commitments into real action.

Director Cleon said the two-day summit brings together participants from all 15 counties.

Meanwhile, He called for continued partnerships from both local and international partners to sustain progress and implement key recommendations.

Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Integration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ibrahim Nyei, has reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to empowering youth and women in governance and peacebuilding.

Dr. Nyei emphasized that the summit aligns with the government’s agenda for inclusive development, particularly the pillars of the rule of law, governance, and anti-corruption.

He highlighted Liberia’s progress in implementing UN Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace, Security, and on Youth.

Dr. Nyei said,” Liberia is currently executing its Third National Action Plan under 1325 and launched its first national action plan for 2250 last year. These initiatives aim to enhance participation, protect against violence, and prevent youth and women from being involved in conflicts”.

Meanwhile, he called for continued collaboration with organizations, including Naymote Partners for Democratic Development and the UN system, to further promote the principles of these resolutions.

Dr. Nyei affirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ commitment to support all initiatives that empower women and youth in governance and peacebuilding.

For his part, the Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Ireland to Liberia, Kevin Culligan, has emphasized Ireland’s commitment to supporting democratic governance, political accountability, and civic engagement in Liberia.

Culligan conveyed greetings from the Irish Ambassador, Jared Considine, who was unable to attend.

He praised the summit for bringing together voices from all fifteen countries, highlighting that democracy extends beyond elections and into everyday governance.

According to him, “Democracy is about institutions that serve the people, leaders who answer to citizens, and systems that ensure no one is left behind.”

He stressed that accountability, inclusion, and the rule of law are essential for building trust, ensuring justice, and sustaining democracy

Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Ireland to Liberia, Kevin Culligan, encouraged participants’ patience and persistence in building accountable institutions.

At the same time, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Liberia, Christine Umutoni, has praised the country’s democratic resilience and emphasized the need for continued civic engagement, accountability, and inclusive governance.

Madam Umutoni extended appreciation to Naymote Partners for Democratic Development for convening the event and providing a platform to strengthen Liberia’s democratic journey.

She stressed that summits and workshops play a vital role in developing leadership and maintaining public engagement.

Madam Umutoni also recognized the importance of local governance, applauding the government’s renaming of the Ministry of Internal Affairs to the Ministry of Local Governance as a step toward building citizen trust at the community level.

She reaffirmed the UN’s support, particularly through UNDP, UN Women, and other agencies, to enhance governance, civic participation, and transparency across Liberia.

Meanwhile, Madam Umutoni said,” The UN is proud to participate alongside partners in ensuring that governance, inclusion, and accountability remain central to Liberia’s development, encouraging sustained collaboration for a stronger, more democratic future”.