MONROVIA, LIBERIA – A political commentator and activist Vandalark R. Patricks has organized a weighty public demonstration titled “March on the Capitol,” scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The march, set to unfold on the grounds of the Capitol Building, aims to oppose what Patricks describes as the unconstitutional removal of embattled Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa by a faction of lawmakers led by Rep. Samuel G. Kogar of District #5, Nimba County.
In a fervent social media post, Patricks declared, “The ‘March on the Capitol’ to demand those 43 cruel lawmakers who have taken heavy bribes (US$25,000) to subvert or violate our constitution is set for November 5, 2024! There’s absolutely no turning back!” He emphasized that while the march is not necessarily disputing the Speaker’s removal, it seeks to hold lawmakers accountable to constitutional procedures and legislative rules.
Patricks elaborated on the broader implications of adhering to constitutional mandates: “We are requesting the 43 lawmakers to use the Constitution of Liberia and the House’s own rules to remove the Speaker! Liberians are interested in the allegations levied against the Speaker as stated in their ‘Resolution.’ We are convinced that if Speaker Koffa is removed following constitutional guidelines and due process, it will expose underlying issues and potentially lead to a critical reform of the National Legislature, which would be in the best interest of all Liberians.”
The activist called for the public to show solidarity by wearing red, white, and blue attire during the march and maintained that such a demonstration is not only lawful but also a patriotic duty.
In his statement, Patricks made a direct appeal to women’s organizations across Liberia, urging them to engage with female lawmakers involved in the decision to remove Speaker Koffa. Drawing on historical references, he noted, “Given the heinous crimes committed during the bloody crisis when the constitution was brutally violated by a few male leaders, women and children suffered unmercifully. After 34 years, we expected our female lawmakers to uphold the rule of law. Instead, joining those who plot against our constitution is the worst decision they could make.”
He further challenged the women’s groups, stating that when women are criticized for wrongful acts, there is often a tendency to play the victim. “This time, there will be no sympathy. Articles 1 and 17 are set to be enacted during the ‘March on the Capitol,’ and history will judge those who participate in violating constitutional procedures.”
While Patricks’ call to action has resonated with many of Speaker Koffa’s supporters, others have expressed skepticism and outright disapproval. Elpaulay Jackson, a commentator, responded on social media, “Our women’s groups should not be perceived as a single entity. These groups have different motivations and interests. To coerce them into this protest is disingenuous. Yes, we should challenge the corrupt legislature, but not in defense of Speaker Koffa, who is far from an exemplar of change.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Jimmy Wogbeh, who criticized Patricks for not taking action when funds were misappropriated under Koffa’s tenure as Deputy Speaker. “No one will protest for Koffa! Any attempt will meet with counter-protests,” Wogbeh asserted.
Other individuals, such as James Goffa and Robert Saah HallieKawolo, dismissed Patricks’ motivations and questioned his focus on female lawmakers. “Do your fight for the Speaker and stop dragging women into this. Legislative politics do not benefit the average Liberian,” HallieKawolo stated.
Adding to the discourse, Fubbi Henries pointed out financial misconduct attributed to Speaker Koffa, citing massive overspending in past budgets. “In 2022, the budget for the Deputy Speaker was US$1.5 million, but he spent US$5.6 million. In 2023, the approved budget was US$1.1 million, and he spent US$4 million. These funds were hidden under ‘Operational Expenses.'”
Henries questioned the benefits of supporting such a figure, asking protesters to consider their motivations. “You people are so easily manipulated, which is why the country is in disarray. One man used all that money, maneuvered his way to Speakership, and now some of you defend him?”
Despite the divisive reactions, Patricks remains unwavering in his commitment to lead the march. “We must stand firm for constitutional order and justice. The removal of a public official should not come at the expense of democratic principles,” he reiterated.
