Afell’s 23rd national convention renews focus on justice and rule of law in Liberia
The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) convened its 23rd National Convention on Capitol Hill in Monrovia over the weekend, reaffirming its dedication to strengthening the rule of law and advancing justice across Liberia. The event, themed “Together Let’s Rise Up to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice,” attracted prominent legal stakeholders, civil society representatives, and government officials, signalling a collective commitment to addressing pressing national legal issues.
During the convention, Cllr. Philomena T. Williams was re-elected as President of AFELL for another term, reflecting confidence in her leadership and the organisation’s ongoing mission. In her keynote address, Cllr. Williams discussed critical challenges affecting Liberia, including sexual and gender-based violence, custody rights in divorce proceedings, and the eradication of female genital mutilation. She underscored the need for enhanced collaboration among government bodies, civil society organisations, and international partners to safeguard human rights and ensure equitable access to justice for all citizens.
“AFELL remains firmly committed to peace, security, and the protection of human rights in Liberia,” Cllr. Williams said, speaking to FrontPage Africa. She appealed to the three branches of government, alongside civil society and the public, to lend support to AFELL’s efforts in promoting justice nationwide.
Highlighting the organisation’s accomplishments from 2022 to 2024, Cllr. Williams reported that AFELL had provided legal aid to over 5,000 individuals. The association facilitated more than 1,265 mediations and managed 532 court cases related to issues such as rape, domestic violence, child custody, and property rights. Notably, AFELL also conducted human rights and domestic violence training for over 360 judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and community leaders. Their advocacy and civic education campaigns reached more than 2,800 Liberian citizens throughout the country.
Acknowledgement was given to several international partners for their continued assistance, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Clooney Foundation for Justice, Danish Institute Against Torture (DIGNITY), UN Women, and the Irish Embassy.
Civil Law Court Judge Eva M. Morgan delivered the keynote address, reflecting on AFELL’s origins during Liberia’s 1990 civil crisis and its enduring commitment to vulnerable populations. Judge Morgan stressed the broader significance of the association’s work, emphasising that AFELL advocates for justice beyond gender lines. “The rule of law is not a slogan — it’s a guiding principle. It is the foundation for peace, freedom of speech, and the right to assemble,” she stated.
Also addressing the delegates, Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh urged the newly elected leaders to maintain proactive engagement with AFELL’s mission and avoid complacency. She advocated for actions that align firmly with the organisation’s goals. Additionally, she issued a warning against unlicensed individuals who pose as legal professionals, highlighting the importance of maintaining professional standards within the legal sector. “If you are not a lawyer, shut up and stop acting like you know it all,” Chief Justice Yuoh remarked sternly.
The convention concluded with the election of other AFELL officials: Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelly as First Vice President, Cllr. Evelyn Lah Gongloe as Second Vice President, Cllr. Isabel B. Diggs as Treasurer, Cllr. Sundaiway Nelson Amegashie as Secretary General, and Cllr. Tonieh Talery Wiles as Chaplain.
In recognition of exemplary service, AFELL awarded Lifetime Achievement Awards to Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Yuoh, Associate Justices Jamesetta Howard Wolokollie and Ceaineh D. Clinton Johnson, former Associate Justice Felicia Coleman, and former Chief Justice Frances Johnson Allison. Awards for Excellent Leadership were bestowed upon Cllr. Sumo Izetta Wesley, Cllr. Teplah P. Reeves, Atty. Vivian Neil, and Cllr. Lois Lewis Brutus.
The convention attracted a diverse array of participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Gender, the Embassy of Cameroon, the Liberia National Bar Association, UN Women, the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court, the Female Journalists Association of Liberia, and various student and women’s groups.
The FrontPage Africa is reporting that this event highlights AFELL’s pivotal role in reinforcing legal frameworks and promoting justice within Liberia, showcasing its strategic partnerships and community outreach initiatives crucial to its operations.