By Amos Harris
Chief Justice of Liberia Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr. has called on Liberians, particularly residents of Ganta (Gompa City), Nimba County, to promote national unity, reject tribalism, and uphold the rule of law, warning that ethnic divisions pose a serious threat to the nation’s hard-won peace and stability.
Speaking at the official opening of the Supreme Court’s October 2026 Term, Chief Justice Gbeisay urged citizens to unite across ethnic lines, cautioning that tribal rhetoric risks reopening painful chapters of Liberia’s past.
He emphasized that tribalism undermines national unity, threatens national peace, and risks triggering civil unrest. Reminding Liberians of the devastating consequences of past conflict, the Chief Justice stressed that the country must never slide back into ethnic division.
Reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to enforcing court decisions without fear or favor, Chief Justice Gbeisay declared that the law is blind and that the only tribe recognized before a court of competent jurisdiction is justice. He maintained that judicial decisions must be determined strictly by evidence and applicable statutory laws rather than ethnic identity, political influence, or public pressure.
The Chief Justice nevertheless acknowledged that enforcing court judgments remains a significant hurdle as the Judiciary works to expand access to justice nationwide. He specifically highlighted past challenges in Montserrado and Nimba counties, where land disputes and related legal decisions have frequently heightened community tensions.
Recalling a 2018 judgment at the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court, Gbeisay alleged that members of the local Mandingo community in Ganta violently obstructed the execution of a court decision involving a member of their group. He further alleged that spokesperson Mark Jabateh issued public threats against former Chief Justice Francis S. Korkpor Sr. over the matter, noting that no legal action was taken by the previous administration and that Jabateh was subsequently appointed to a government position under the current administration.
Addressing more recent developments in Ganta, Chief Justice Gbeisay alleged that a former city mayor mobilized members of the Mano and Gio communities to resist a court order, claiming that Mandingo residents had no land rights in the city. He stated that these actions were directed against the court and against him personally as head of the Judiciary.
The Chief Justice revealed that he and his family continue to face personal safety concerns and threats stemming from land dispute rulings, including allegations that he favored specific groups in judicial determinations.
Gbeisay reaffirmed his commitment to judicial independence, reiterating that court rulings are grounded in law and factual evidence rather than tribal considerations. His remarks underscore the imperative of safeguarding judicial officers, resolving land disputes through lawful channels, and ensuring that court decisions are respected by all citizens.
The Chief Justice’s appeal comes amid ongoing concerns over ethnic tensions, land ownership disputes, and resistance to court enforcement in Nimba County. His message reinforced that peaceful coexistence, equal protection under the law, and respect for judicial authority remain fundamental to sustaining national stability.