MONROVIA – In a rare public address, Alexander Cummings, the political leader of Liberia’s opposition Alternative National Congress (ANC), has broken his silence on the escalating power struggle within the House of Representatives. The Majority Bloc in the House has been seeking to oust Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, leading to a month-long deadlock that Cummings warns is pushing Liberia towards a “looming political and constitutional crisis.”
In a statement issued on Monday, November 11, Cummings expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict, which he said poses “serious negative implications for our fledgling democracy and the socio-economic development of the Liberian people.” The standoff, he noted, has brought the legislative functions of the government to a halt, creating an “operational paralysis” with one faction determined to remove Speaker Koffa and another group defending his constitutional right to due process.
Efforts by the Supreme Court to mediate, led by Justice Yamie QuiQui Gbeisay, Sr., have thus far failed to produce a resolution. Both sides remain “adamant and dug-in their respective positions,” according to Cummings, who called for “bold, honest, and sincere intervention and mediation to avoid further deterioration.”
Cummings highlighted the broader dangers the crisis presents to Liberia’s constitutional integrity. “The stalemate in the House of Representatives poses the most serious challenge to our Constitutional order and a threat to our nascent democracy,” he remarked. He stressed that while each faction may have legitimate concerns, they must address them within the “confines of the rule of law and Constitutional order.” He warned that any deviation could invite chaos and compromise the stability needed to attract foreign investment, instill confidence among international donors, and reassure Liberians of their protection under the law.
Reflecting on the responsibility of Liberia’s other branches of government, Cummings urged the Executive and Judiciary to intervene wisely. “It behooves both branches… to act to resolve and not complicate the current crisis,” he said, asserting that inaction could harm Liberia’s international image and undermine the country’s efforts to build a society founded on law and democratic principles.
Cummings concluded by appealing to all parties involved to put national interests above political motivations. He underscored the need for “honest dialogue and negotiation, on all sides, within the perimeters of the rule of law,” and expressed hope that Liberia can overcome its current challenges without requiring external intervention.
