MONROVIA – The embattled Speaker of Liberia’s House of Representatives, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, remains in office despite increasing pressure from the Majority Bloc for his resignation, Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah confirmed today at the Ministry’s press briefing. Addressing the issue of leadership within the House, Minister Piah clarified, “Speaker Koffa has not been removed and remains the Speaker of the House. Once the budget is finalized, it will be submitted to him for review.”
Minister Piah also addressed ongoing investigations by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) into alleged budgetary manipulations linked to Koffa’s office, adding, “If any member of the Executive is found culpable in the LACC investigation regarding the removal quest of the Speaker, they will face punitive action.” Piah’s statements come as Speaker Koffa’s support continues to dwindle, with only 28 Representatives attending Tuesday’s assembly — a significant drop from the 30 needed, and far below the simple majority of 37 required for legislative decisions.
In recent weeks, the Majority Bloc, led by Representative Samuel G. Kogar of Nimba County’s District #5, has intensified its campaign for Koffa’s resignation. The bloc has accused Speaker Koffa of spreading misinformation, manipulating the budget, and obstructing an audit by the General Auditing Commission (GAC). Speaking on behalf of the anti-Koffa lawmakers, Representative Nyahn G. Flomo issued a public rebuttal, defending the transparency of Liberia’s budget process and highlighting that all fund reallocations require legislative approval. Flomo argued that Speaker Koffa’s claims of ignorance regarding financial changes are inconsistent with his extensive legislative experience, calling into question his credibility and ability to lead effectively.
Flomo further alleged that Koffa has actively hindered the GAC audit, challenging him to demonstrate his commitment to transparency by fully cooperating with the LACC investigation. The Majority Bloc’s accusations have cast a shadow over Koffa’s political standing and strained his relationship with colleagues, with many in the House questioning his adherence to legislative ethics and accountability.
Meanwhile, Speaker Koffa has been invited by the Ministry of Finance to participate in discussions on the validation of the draft ARREST Agenda on Thursday, October 31, 2024. As tensions escalate, this invitation underscores the ongoing challenges Koffa faces in balancing legislative duties with the demands of his leadership defense.
With calls for accountability growing louder, Speaker Koffa’s political future remains uncertain as the Majority Bloc seeks to enforce legislative oversight and restore public confidence in Liberia’s House of Representatives.
