Veteran Liberian Human Rights lawyer, Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has underscored the significance of Legal Aid in the country.

Delivering his keynote address at the Third National Legal Aid Conference organized by the Center for Legal Aid Support Services recently held at the Carina Hotel in Sinkor, Cllr. Gongloe stated that many nations face complex socio-economic challenges that affect access to justice. 

He explained that poverty, lack of education, and systemic inequalities stimulated by extreme greed, selfishness and corruption, has often leave the most vulnerable segments of society without the means to engage with or benefit from the legal system. 

According to him, whether it’s the poor rural farmer or community who cannot afford a lawyer in a land dispute against a giant corporation or powerful individual; whether it is the domestic abuse survivor who has nowhere to turn for legal representation, the single mother of children whose fathers persistently refuse to provide financial support for the survival of their children, or the accused who faces trial without any legal defense, Legal Aid is the vital force that can help right these wrongs.

 ‘’As a nation, we are committed to upholding the principles of democracy and human rights; Yet, these ideals are meaningless if they are not accessible to all Liberians, regardless of their economic status, Legal Aid is not just a service—it is a manifestation of our commitment to equality and justice, Cllr. Gongloe added.’’

He furthered explained that Legal Aid has empowered people to stand up for their rights, to challenge injustices, and to transform their communities. 

Cllr. Gongloe maintained that the legal system, when made accessible, becomes a means for individuals to take control of their lives and futures, considering the impact that Legal Aid has on women and children. 

‘’Legal Aid has been critical in ensuring that women have access to justice in cases of domestic violence, property rights, inheritance disputes, persistent non-support and other issues related to gender equality”, he said.

According to Cllr. Gongloe, legal aid has allowed children to receive the protection they deserve, whether in matters of child labor, child support, child abuse, child marriage (statutory rape), child trafficking, or other forms of exploitation.

The veteran Liberian lawyer acknowledged that the rule of law is meant to protect every citizen, no matter their socio-economic background, and that no one is above the law—nor should there be less protection for anyone.