Monrovia – Judge Richard Klah has stepped down from the Judiciary as Judge of the Commercial Court at the Temple of Justice.
Chief Justice Francis Korkpor confirmed Klah’s resignation during the official opening ceremony of the Supreme Court Monday, October 14.
The Chief Justice made the disclosure in the presence of President George Weah, House Speaker Bhofal Chambers and President Pro-Tempore Albert Chie who were all attending the opening of the court.
Klah was one of three judges at the Commercial Court.
Judge Klah was complained early this year to the Grievance and Ethics Commission of the Judiciary for soliciting bribe by one of the parties in a case before him.
“So, it is often with heavy heart when this court is constrained to sanction one of its own family members for serious ethical and or professional misconduct.”
– Chief Justice Francis Korkpor
He was investigated by the Judiciary Inquiry Commission and found guilty for being involved in professional and ethical misconduct.
The Supreme Court has now ordered Judge Klah be turned himself over to the Legislature for impeachment.
On Monday, October 14 while declaring the October Term opened, Chief Justice Korkpor added that former Judge Klah was adjudged in a serious violation of both the Judicial Canon and that of the Criminal Code of Liberia.
“So, it is often with heavy heart when this court is constrained to sanction one of its own family members for serious ethical and or professional misconduct,” said Chief Justice Korkpor.
He said that as painful as it is this action has to be done to protect the image and integrity of the judicial system of the country which is larger than all Liberians.
Chief Justice Korkpor said if the Judiciary must remain the rampart upon which the distressed climb for safety; it must continue instituting self –cleansing actions to rid it of act of improprieties.
He expressed hope that the recent decision to punish the Judge will serve as a deterrent to all.
Meanwhile, commenting on Judge Klah resignation, Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) President Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe applauded the Supreme Court for its decision.
He called for the punishment of Judges and lawyers who violate the professional code and cannon which control the noble offices that they occupy as lawyers and judges.
Gongloe continued that it is only by the court being rigid in punishing lawyers and judges for mis-conduct that the honor of the legal profession and dignity of the court will be enhanced and protected.
“Self-criticism and correction is the best way to build a strong institution, therefore we encourage the Supreme Court and the subordinate courts to continue to take corrective measures against lawyers and magistrates for improving the integrity of the Judiciary,” said Gongloe.