Pres. Boakai to Nominate Former TRC Chair Cllr. Verdier, Sr. as New Chief Justice of Liberia?

Friday, June 27, 2025

In a landmark decision signaling a renewed commitment to judicial reform and accountability, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai is expected to nominate renowned human rights advocate and former Chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), Cllr. Jerome J. Verdier, Sr., to serve as Chief Justice of the Republic of Liberia. The nomination comes as Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh prepares to step down following the completion of her tenure. Cllr. Verdier’s anticipated appointment marks a significant moment in Liberia’s post-conflict democratic evolution, given his long-standing track record in promoting the rule of law, transitional justice, and institutional transparency. As head of the TRC from 2006 to 2009, Verdier led one of the most consequential national efforts to uncover the root causes of Liberia’s civil conflicts and recommend pathways to national healing and reform. 

Sources within the Executive Mansion confirm that President Boakai views Cllr. Verdier’s legal background, moral standing, and institutional courage as essential qualities needed to reinvigorate public trust in the judiciary. “President Boakai believes that a strong, independent, and ethical judiciary is the cornerstone of national unity and sustainable peace,” a senior government official noted. “Cllr. Verdier has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice and integrity throughout his legal career.” The outgoing Chief Justice, Her Honor Sie-A-Nyene Yuoh, who was appointed in 2022 by former President George Weah, is expected to retire with recognition for her efforts to modernize court administration and promote gender equality in the legal profession. However, her tenure has also faced public scrutiny over judicial delays and lingering concerns around access to justice for ordinary Liberians. 

Cllr. Verdier, who holds decades of legal experience both in Liberia and abroad, has been a vocal advocate for accountability, anti-corruption reform, and the full implementation of the TRC recommendations, including the establishment of a war and economic crimes court. If confirmed by the Liberian Senate, Cllr. Verdier would become the 21st Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia and would oversee a judiciary at a pivotal time when calls for transparency, reform, and independence are at an all-time high. The Liberian public and international observers are expected to watch the nomination process closely, as Cllr. Verdier’s legal philosophy and human rights background are likely to shape the national conversation around justice, reconciliation, and constitutional adherence for years to come. The formal nomination is expected to be submitted to the Senate in the coming days for confirmation hearings.