David Kpamakor

Early Life and Education

Born in Klay Township, Bomi County, Liberia, Kpormakpor was the first in his family to receive formal education. He attended Klay Baptist Mission and Lott Cary Mission Schools before earning his high school diploma from the College of West Africa in 1953. He pursued higher education in the United States, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Arts from San Francisco State University in 1965. He furthered his legal studies at the University of Liberia Law School, earning a Bachelor of Laws in 1968, and later received a Master of Comparative Law from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1970.

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Legal and Academic Career

Upon returning to Liberia, Kpormakpor joined the faculty of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia in 1974, eventually becoming a full professor. He contributed to national legal frameworks as a member of the Constitution Drafting Commission from 1981 to 1984 and served as an associate justice on the Supreme Court of Liberia from 1987 to 1990.

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Political Leadership

During the Liberian civil war, Kpormakpor was appointed as the first chairman of the Council of State of the Liberian National Transitional Government (LNTG) in 1994. This five-member council was established by the Cotonou Agreement in July 1993, aiming to replace the Interim Government of National Unity (IGNU) and facilitate peace among warring factions. His leadership was pivotal during this tumultuous period, as he worked to stabilize the nation amidst ongoing conflict.

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Later Life and Legacy

After his tenure, Kpormakpor relocated to the United States, residing on Staten Island, New York City. He passed away on August 19, 2010, in New York City. His contributions to Liberia's legal system and his role in guiding the country through a critical transitional phase are remembered as significant aspects of his legacy.