Africa-Press – Liberia. The convention, held under the theme “Together Let’s Rise Up to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice,” brought together key legal and civil society stakeholders.
The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the rule of law and promoting justice across Liberia. The call was made during the organization’s 23rd National Convention held over the weekend on Capitol Hill in Monrovia.
The convention, held under the theme “Together Let’s Rise Up to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice,” brought together key legal and civil society stakeholders. It also marked the reelection of Cllr. Philomena T. Williams as President of AFELL for a new term.
In her address, Cllr. Williams spotlighted critical national concerns, including sexual and gender-based violence, custody rights in divorce cases, and female genital mutilation. She called for stronger collaboration between government institutions, civil society, and international partners to uphold human rights and ensure equal access to justice.
“AFELL remains firmly committed to peace, security, and the protection of human rights in Liberia,” said Cllr. Williams. “We urge all three branches of government, the public, and our civil society partners to support our efforts in ensuring justice for all.”
Highlighting the organization’s achievements from 2022 to 2024, Cllr. Williams reported that AFELL has provided legal aid to over 5,000 individuals, facilitated more than 1,265 mediations, and handled 532 court cases covering rape, domestic violence, child custody, and property rights.
Additionally, AFELL has trained over 360 judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and community leaders in human rights and domestic violence awareness. Through advocacy and civic education campaigns, the organization also reached over 2,800 citizens across the country.
Cllr. Williams expressed gratitude to international partners 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 for their continued support.
Delivering the keynote address, Civil Law Court Judge Eva M. Morgan reflected on AFELL’s founding during the 1990 civil crisis and its longstanding advocacy for vulnerable populations. She emphasized that the organization promotes justice for all, not just women.
“The rule of law is not a slogan — it’s a guiding principle,” said Judge Morgan. “It is the foundation for peace, freedom of speech, and the right to assemble.”
Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh also addressed the gathering, urging the newly elected officials to remain active and avoid complacency. “Match your words with decisive action,” she said. “Avoid complacency and stay focused on AFELL’s mission.”
She also issued a stern warning against unlicensed individuals masquerading as legal professionals. “If you are not a lawyer, shut up and stop acting like you know it all,” the Chief Justice said.
The convention, held under the theme “Together Let’s Rise Up to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice,” brought together key legal and civil society stakeholders.
The event concluded with the formal reelection of Cllr. Philomena T. Williams as President, along with 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.
AFELL also honored several distinguished female lawyers for their service. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented 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 presented to Cllr. Sumo Izetta Wesley, Cllr. Teplah P. Reeves, Atty. Vivian Neil, and Cllr. Lois Lewis Brutus.
The convention was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Gender, Embassy of Cameroon, 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.
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