Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, the Chairman-designate of the Law Reform Commission (LRC), presented his vision for transforming Liberia’s legal landscape during a confirmation hearing before the Senate on Friday. He emphasized his commitment to modernizing the legal system to ensure it is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the diverse needs of all citizens.
In his opening remarks, Cllr. Varmah expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. for his nomination and thanked the Senate for the opportunity to articulate his vision for legal reform. He characterized the LRC, established in 2011, as a fundamental pillar of Liberia’s legal framework, responsible for ensuring that national laws remain relevant and just in a rapidly changing society.
“Law reform transcends mere alterations to legal texts,” Varmah asserted. “It is about reshaping our legal system into a dynamic tool for justice, development, and effective governance.”
Cllr. Varmah outlined five primary focus areas that will guide his tenure as LRC Chairman:
1. *Thorough Review of Existing Legislation*:
Varmah highlighted the pressing need to address outdated statutes that conflict with the 1986 Constitution and fail to reflect contemporary realities. He committed to spearheading a collaborative review process aimed at harmonizing and modernizing Liberia’s legal codes in accordance with constitutional principles and international standards.
2. *Enhancing Access to Justice and Promoting Equity*:
He pledged to implement reforms that guarantee fairness and inclusivity within the justice system, particularly for marginalized groups, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities. “Our laws must serve all Liberians—men and women, urban and rural residents, the educated and the uneducated alike,” he stated.
3. *Codification and Simplification of Legal Texts*:
To build public trust and encourage compliance, Varmah promised to simplify and codify laws, making them more comprehensible and accessible to the general populace.
4. *Engagement with Stakeholders and Public Participation*:
Recognizing that effective law reform requires broad collaboration, he vowed to work closely with the Liberian National Bar Association, the Judiciary, the Legislature, academia, civil society, and international partners. He emphasized the importance of incorporating the perspectives of ordinary Liberians into the reform process.
5. *Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of the LRC*:
Varmah acknowledged the necessity for the Commission to bolster its institutional capabilities to effectively carry out its mandate. He committed to enhancing research functions, promoting transparency, and fostering a professional environment that attracts skilled legal practitioners.
Drawing on his extensive experience as the President of the Liberian National Bar Association and the West African Bar Association, Varmah assured the Senate of his dedication to integrity, impartiality, and diligence in his role.
“I pledge to serve with distinction and to ensure that the Law Reform Commission becomes a driving force for legal modernization and a cornerstone of Liberia’s democratic governance,” he declared.
In closing, Cllr. Varmah appealed for the Senate’s confirmation, expressing his readiness to “advance the cause of justice and ensure that our legal system embodies the aspirations and needs of the Liberian people.”
