MONROVIA – In a stunning revelation, Liberia’s political landscape has been shaken by allegations of corruption involving President Joseph Boakai. Reports suggest that the ruling Unity Party, led by President Boakai, is involved in a plot to remove House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa from his position, targeting him due to his role in fast-tracking a war crimes resolution. Hon. Koffa is a member of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) party led by George Weah.
The bombshell revelation came to light when Representative Yekeh Kolubah of Montserrado County District Number 10 made a startling statement yesterday. Kolubah claimed that President Boakai distributed cash coupons to lawmakers in the House of Representatives, specifically members of the Richard Koon faction, through Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Sylvester Grisgby. The alleged intention behind this act was to secure support for Koffa’s removal. Kolubah even displayed a copy of an alleged check worth US$4500, which he claims is a bribe he received from the Boakai camp.
This disclosure has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s political sphere, highlighting a fierce power struggle between the Unity Party and the CDC. The maneuvering to oust House Speaker Koffa raises concerns about the government’s stability and the potential consequences for both parties involved. The main reason behind this scheme against the House Speaker is his role in helping to create the war crimes court in Liberia.
The ramifications of this revelation could have a significant impact on Liberia’s political balance and the future of the ruling party. As events continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how President Boakai and the Unity Party will address these accusations and what steps the CDC will take to defend Speaker Koffa.
The motive behind this scheme against the House Speaker is concerning, as it appears to be a punishment for his involvement in creating the war crimes court in Liberia. It is worth noting that President Boakai had previously opposed Koffa’s election as speaker, amid similar allegations of financial inducement.
When approached for a response regarding the allegations, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana did not provide a statement. She did not answer our calls nor respond to our WhatsApp messages. The unfolding events are heightening tensions within the Liberian government and are expected to dominate political discourse in the coming days.
This recent disclosure contradicts Speaker Koffa’s recent statement on social media, where he mentioned a productive meeting with the President to address governance and coordination challenges. The inconsistency between the two accounts raises questions about the nature and outcome of the meeting, suggesting a discrepancy in perspectives or communication between the Speaker and other officials present.
Such disparities underscore the importance of clarity and transparency in official communications to ensure a unified understanding of key discussions and decisions taken during high-level meetings. It is crucial for leaders to align their messaging to prevent confusion and maintain trust within the government and among the public.
Meanwhile, war crimes investigators in Washington DC have expressed awareness of the alleged bribery situation in Liberia involving President Joseph Boakai. The investigators stated that the alleged plot to remove the House Speaker is linked to his support for a war crimes court resolution, currently being held in the Senate. They are closely following the case and its implications.
The unfolding events have left Liberia’s political landscape in turmoil, warranting further investigation and action to uphold the integrity and stability of the government.
