MONROVIA – Madam Grace RK Guar, a U.S.-based Liberian social justice, anti-corruption advocate and writer, has openly criticized Vandalark Patricks’ protest initiative, “Move On The Capitol,” condemning it as a disruptive force against essential legislative functions in Liberia. In a strongly-worded statement, Guar warned that ongoing protests and internal divisions within the House of Representatives risk plunging the nation into chaos. She expressed particular frustration over House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa’s refusal to step down amid widespread dissent, urging him to resign to allow the House to refocus on pressing national issues.
“The protest is a complete distraction from the people’s work at the Capitol,” Guar stated, lamenting that divisions within the legislative body have led to an environment where “both sides don’t take their jobs seriously.” She argued that Koffa’s continued presence as Speaker has compromised the House’s ability to function effectively, given the lack of support from a significant faction of representatives unwilling to work under his leadership.
According to Guar, Liberia’s legislative discord mirrors past challenges faced by the U.S. House of Representatives, where several speakers voluntarily stepped down due to internal conflicts without formal votes of removal. She referenced instances such as Speaker John Boehner in 2015 and Speaker Newt Gingrich in 1998, who both resigned amid waning support from their parties. “These instances show that, even without formal votes, speakers who lack the confidence of their colleagues have voluntarily resigned in the interest of effective governance,” Guar explained, suggesting that Koffa should take a similar course of action.
Guar further criticized Koffa for allegedly overlooking legal standards in the past, specifically pointing to his handling of the 2023/24 national budget. She claimed that the last budget he approved was altered and passed without sufficient scrutiny, a move she believes reflects poorly on his commitment to the rule of law. “Did he follow the rule of law when passing the altered budget?” she questioned, implying that Koffa’s leadership may be undermining fiscal integrity in Liberia.
Highlighting Liberia’s deepening poverty crisis, Guar argued that ongoing political distractions exacerbate the plight of ordinary Liberians. “Our people are tired. The majority are desperately poor, and the country is already in crisis. Why add more to the suffering of the people by clinging to a position that brings division instead of unity?” she asserted. Guar warned that if the Speaker and the anti-Koffa faction continue to prioritize personal and political interests, it will only lead to further harm for Liberia’s vulnerable citizens.
Concluding her statement, Guar appealed to Speaker Koffa’s sense of patriotism, suggesting that stepping down would elevate him in the public eye as a true statesman. “At this point, if he resigns, he will be seen as a hero. I don’t understand why he’s doing this,” she said, emphasizing that leadership often requires sacrifice and the courage to act in the country’s best interest, even if that means leaving office.
Guar’s remarks have intensified debate around Koffa’s role as Speaker, as well as the broader issue of legislative accountability. Her words echo a growing sentiment that calls for a stronger focus on Liberia’s economic and social challenges rather than political power struggles.
