MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Rule of Law Legislative Caucus, led by its chairman, Representative Musa Hassan Bility of Nimba County’s District #7, has announced its decision to rejoin legislative sessions, pledging to address internal grievances through active participation on the floor of the House of Representatives. This move comes after a prolonged period of dissatisfaction with unresolved Supreme Court rulings that the caucus had hoped would provide clarity on key issues.
During a press briefing at the Capitol Building on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, Representative Bility expressed the caucus’s intention to shift tactics in addressing their concerns, signaling a preference for legislative engagement over external disputes. “We will adopt a different approach to resolve our differences through legislative interaction,” he declared, underscoring the group’s commitment to finding solutions within the framework of the House’s processes.
Central to the caucus’s grievances are several issues they have described as violations of the Constitution and procedural norms. One of their primary objections centers on the recent election of a new Speaker, which they argue was unnecessary, given the legitimacy of the current officeholder under the Constitution and House Rules. This action, they claim, undermines the legislative institution’s stability.
Another point of contention involves the suspension and withholding of salaries for certain lawmakers, which the caucus insists is a breach of established rules. The group also criticized the recent dissolution and reconstitution of House committees, alleging that these actions were carried out without adherence to proper legislative procedures. They labeled the changes an overreach that disrupts the functioning of the House.
Additionally, the caucus expressed frustration over the failure to disburse benefits allocated to its members, despite full remittances made by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning into the accounts of the House of Representatives. According to Representative Bility, these actions have exacerbated tensions among lawmakers and eroded trust within the legislative body.
Despite their grievances, the caucus reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law. Representative Bility emphasized that the group would pursue a dual strategy, combining legal challenges with legislative advocacy to resolve their disputes. “We want to emphasize that we remain committed to the rule of law, which includes taking further appropriate legal actions while pursuing legislative resolutions on the floor of the House of Representatives,” he stated.
Bility extended his gratitude to the Liberian people for their unwavering support, assuring them that the caucus remains steadfast in its dedication to justice and democratic governance. He also reiterated the group’s belief in the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and adherence to established legal and legislative frameworks.
