MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Majority Bloc of House of Representatives has accused embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa of attempting to undermine the legislature and disrupt government operations. The escalating tension follows a statement issued by Koffa on Sunday, December 8, 2024, which dismissed plans for budget hearings announced by the Majority Bloc. The group, referring to Koffa as the “former Speaker,” has described his actions as desperate, shameful, and in defiance of a recent Supreme Court ruling.
In a strongly worded response, the Majority Bloc labeled Koffa’s statements as “unpatriotic and careless,” arguing that they blatantly disregard the Supreme Court’s December 6, 2024, decision. This ruling reportedly resolved constitutional issues raised by Koffa, affirming the legitimacy of the Majority Bloc’s actions.
Koffa’s statement, approved by his faction of the House leadership, declared the budget hearing schedules released by the Majority Bloc as invalid. “It has come to the attention of the Leadership of the House that certain absent members have organized themselves into committees to conduct budget hearings,” the statement read. It further warned government spending entities against honoring invitations or appearing before committees not chaired by Representative Dixon Seboe of the Ways, Means, and Finance Committee, a Koffa ally.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated further with reports that Representative Marvin Cole, a staunch supporter of Koffa’s bloc, is allegedly preparing for what some have described as a “Capitol Hill insurrection.” According to sources, Cole is leaving Gbarnga with over 300 men expected to enter Monrovia by nightfall on December 8, 2024, ahead of the December 9 legislative session. Reports suggest that Cole is traveling in a convoy of four vehicles, with his men traveling separately to avoid detection. Cole’s alleged threats of a bloodbath on Capitol Hill have prompted heightened security measures, with the Joint Security reportedly taking control of the legislative grounds. Officials have stated that no one will be allowed access to Capitol Hill without proper identification.
Koffa also called for absent members to seek legal clarification on the Supreme Court’s ruling rather than engage in what he described as unlawful actions. He urged all members to prioritize unity and attend the House session scheduled for Tuesday, December 10, 2024, to resolve the impasse.
In their rebuttal, the Majority Bloc criticized Koffa’s interpretation of the Supreme Court’s ruling, accusing him of sowing division and attempting to obstruct legislative processes. “Representative Koffa’s statements are unpatriotic, careless, and a blatant defiance of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling,” the group stated. They reaffirmed their commitment to proceed with the budget debates, emphasizing their responsibility to ensure government operations continue uninterrupted.
The political standoff has drawn varied reactions, including a controversial call from journalist Charles Yates for military intervention. In a Facebook post, Yates suggested that the military take control to protect the constitution amid what he described as a constitutional crisis. “I stand by this call,” Yates wrote. “If there will be two speakers and some folks are disrespecting the Supreme Court orders, it means we are running into constitutional crises, and therefore, we need the military to take control and protect the constitution.”
Yates’ statement has generated alarm, with many fearing it could exacerbate the already volatile political climate. Calls for military involvement in civilian governance have historically been a sensitive issue in Liberia, given the country’s experience with military coups and civil unrest.
The standoff between Koffa and the Majority Bloc has raised concerns about the stability of Liberia’s legislative branch. With both sides refusing to yield, the budget hearings, a critical component of government operations, hang in the balance. Analysts warn that prolonged infighting could disrupt essential services and further erode public trust in the legislature.
The Supreme Court’s ruling was expected to bring clarity to the leadership dispute within the House of Representatives. However, the conflicting interpretations have deepened divisions, threatening to paralyze legislative functions. As both sides prepare for the December 10 session, the focus will be on finding a resolution that ensures the continuity of government operations while upholding the rule of law.
