By: Shallon S. Gonlor
SANNIQUELLIE, NIMBA COUNTY – In a historic and groundbreaking moment, the Nimba Bar Association (NBA) has ushered in its first female president, Cllr. Kim Amelia Harris. Her election marks a significant milestone not only for the association but also for gender equality in Liberia’s legal profession, signaling a new era of leadership and inclusivity.
Cllr. Harris, a seasoned legal practitioner and human rights advocate, brings years of experience and a proven track record of dedication to the legal field. Her election is being celebrated as a transformative step forward for the NBA, with expectations high for her to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the association.
A Journey of Determination and Perseverance
Cllr. Harris’ path to the presidency was not without challenges. Her unwavering determination and commitment to the legal profession have finally culminated in this historic achievement. A long-standing member of the NBA, she has served in various capacities, including as chairperson of the association’s Ways and Means Committee for six years. Her leadership in these roles laid the groundwork for her election as president.
“Today, with God being my help, I humbly reaffirm and commit to working with the esteemed members of this bar, other local bars, the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA), partners, and the general public to achieve our objectives to the best of our ability,” Cllr. Harris declared during her induction speech on Monday at the 8th Judicial Circuit Court in Sanniquellie.
Vision and Priorities for the NBA
As the new president, Cllr. Harris has outlined an ambitious agenda aimed at advancing the NBA’s mandates, which include promoting the science of jurisprudence, ensuring fair and speedy dispensation of justice, providing free legal services to indigent citizens, and elevating the standards of integrity, professionalism, and courtesy within the legal profession.
Key priorities for her administration include:
1. Legal Reforms and Inclusivity: Cllr. Harris plans to champion legal reforms and push for greater inclusivity within the legal profession, ensuring that the NBA remains a strong, professional, and self-regulating body.
2. Constitutional Review: Recognizing the need for adaptability, Cllr. Harris has pledged to constitute a special committee to review the NBA’s constitution. This review will address existing concerns and ensure that the constitution remains relevant to the association’s evolving needs.
3. Headquarters Project: One of the flagship projects under her leadership will be the construction of the NBA headquarters, a long-awaited initiative. Cllr. Harris expressed gratitude to her predecessors for acquiring and leveling the land and called for collective support through fundraising, taxation, and due payments to bring the project to fruition.
4. Continuing Legal Education and Aid Programs**: Cllr. Harris has committed to continuing the NBA’s legal education and aid programs, which focus on critical issues such as gender-based violence, drug abuse, and land rights. These programs aim to raise legal awareness and provide support to vulnerable communities.
5. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Leveraging her expertise in mediation and conciliation, Cllr. Harris emphasized the importance of ADR mechanisms as a viable option for resolving legal disputes in Nimba County.
Challenges Ahead
While Cllr. Harris’s election is a historic achievement, she faces significant challenges in her new role. The legal profession in Liberia continues to grapple with issues such as access to justice, inadequate legal education, and ethical concerns. Additionally, leading a diverse and dynamic association will require strong consensus-building and collaboration among members.
Cllr. Harris acknowledged these challenges but expressed confidence in her ability to navigate them with the support of her colleagues. “We will endeavor to host a General Assembly in 2025, but we can only achieve this if we have your continuous support and contributions,” she said, rallying bar members to unite behind her administration’s vision.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Cllr. Kim Amelia Harris’s election as the first female president of the Nimba Bar Association is more than a personal achievement; it is a beacon of hope and inspiration for women and girls across Liberia. Her leadership exemplifies the power of determination and perseverance in breaking barriers and forging new paths.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Cllr. Harris’s presidency promises to bring transformative change to the NBA and the broader legal profession in Nimba County. Her historic achievement serves as a reminder that with vision, commitment, and collaboration, the legal profession can become a more inclusive and equitable space for all.
