MONROVIA, LIBERIA — A political move was announced by the Rule of Law Caucus in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, as members decided to abstain from attending the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA). The caucus, which is made up of concerned lawmakers, voiced its growing alarm over what it sees as a dangerous trend of encroachment on legislative independence by the Executive branch.
Rep. Musa Hassan Bility, Chairman of the Caucus, stated that the recent endorsement of Hon. Richard N. Koon as Speaker of the House by the Executive is a flagrant violation of democratic principles. The caucus believes that such actions undermine the authority of the legitimate Speaker, currently in office, and tarnish the integrity of the Legislature. According to the statement, accepting an invitation to the SONA under these circumstances would signal approval of the unlawful recognition of Koon, which the Caucus firmly rejects.
Adding weight to the decision, the caucus expressed its concern about recent confrontations between law enforcement and its members. The lawmakers underscored their determination to resist any attempts to manufacture false evidence in retaliation for their stance on these critical issues. Despite the pressures, the caucus reiterated its commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigations, but it warned that it would continue to fight any efforts to undermine the rule of law.
“The matter regarding the Speaker’s legitimacy is still under judicial review,” said Bility. “Any official recognition of Koon before the court renders its decision is not just an affront to the Legislature, but also a direct attack on the core principles of democracy in Liberia. This decision is not taken in haste, but as a principled stand against actions that weaken our institutions.”
The Rule of Law Caucus called upon other members of the Legislature, including the Senate, to join them in rejecting any actions that compromise the sovereignty of the legislative branch. The group’s message was clear: they will not back down in their fight for the preservation of Liberia’s democratic governance.
