In a truly historic and groundbreaking moment for Liberia, Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh made history by becoming the third female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This appointment stands as a monumental milestone in the rich judicial history of the nation. Hailing from Montserrado County in the bustling city of Monrovia, Chief Justice Yuoh’s journey to this esteemed position is a statement to her resolute passion for upholding the rule of law and serving the public with integrity. Her impressive track record of legal expertise and her deep-rooted sense of justice have undoubtedly contributed to her well-deserved appointment.
As the third female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Yuoh joins a select group of trailblazing women who have shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of female leaders in the judiciary. Her leadership will undoubtedly inspire young girls across Liberia to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence in whatever path they choose to follow. Chief Justice Yuoh’s appointment not only represents a significant step towards gender equality in the legal sector but also symbolizes a progressive shift towards a more inclusive and diverse judiciary. Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh’s appointment as the third female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is a momentous occasion that will be remembered in the annals of Liberian history.
Chief Justice Yuoh embarked on her academic journey at St. Teresa’s Convent Catholic High School in Monrovia, a prestigious institution where she honed her academic skills and graduated with distinction in 1974. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge led her to Cuttington University in Suakoko, Bong County, a renowned university known for its academic excellence. Here, she delved into the realm of Political Science, immersing herself in a myriad of courses that broadened her understanding of governance and politics. In 1978, she proudly walked across the stage to receive her Bachelor of Arts degree.
Fuelled by her passion for justice and the rule of law, Chief Justice Yuoh set her sights on the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia. This esteemed institution provided her with a solid foundation in legal principles, equipping her with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the legal field. In 1981, she successfully obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree, marking a significant milestone in her academic and professional journey. Her commitment to excellence did not go unnoticed, as she was duly admitted to the Liberia National Bar Association as an Attorney-At-Law, a recognition of her legal acumen and dedication to upholding justice.
Her illustrious career in public service began in the Executive Branch of Liberia. From 1983 to 1985, she served as Assistant Minister for Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Justice. Her expertise in legal and African affairs saw her take up roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and later at the Central Bank of Liberia, where she served as Corporate Secretary and Assistant Legal Counsel from 2000 to 2003. She further contributed to the nation’s legal framework as Acting Executive Director and Commissioner at the Law Reform Commission from July 2011 to April 2013. In the private sector, Chief Justice Yuoh showcased her legal acumen at the David A.B. Jallah Law Firm from 1994 to 2000. Her commitment to advancing the legal profession in Liberia was evident through her leadership roles, including Vice President of the Liberia National Bar Association, founding member of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia, and President of the Maryland County Local Bar Association.
Chief Justice Yuoh’s dedication to justice and her exemplary legal career culminated in her nomination and appointment as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia in 2013. Her historic elevation to Chief Justice in 2022 by President George Weah was a moment of immense pride for Liberia, as she became the third female Chief Justice since 2003. On September 28, 2022, Chief Justice Yuoh was officially inducted into office, vowing to uphold impartial justice for all. At the opening of court for the October term, she reaffirmed her commitment to the Constitution of Liberia and expressed her hope for greater female representation in the judiciary.
