MONROVIA, LIBERIA – On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the simmering dispute within Liberia’s House of Representatives took a dramatic turn as the majority bloc, pushing for the removal of Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, convened a crucial session in the refurbished joint chambers. Presided over by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, with Representative Clarence Gahr of Margibi District #5 as co-presiding officer, this session marked the bloc’s eighth gathering for the third quarter of the legislative year. With forty-two lawmakers present, the day quickly turned tense as the minority bloc loyal to Speaker Koffa attempted to breach the session and were met with tear gas deployed by security.
The session was attended by several members of the executive branch, including Mo Ali from the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), Internal Affairs Minister Francis Nyumalin, and Transport Minister Sirleaf Tyler. Their presence accentuated the gravity of the allegations and the looming consequences for Speaker Koffa’s leadership. Leading the charge were Representatives Alex Grant, Johnson Williams, Anthony William, Prince Toles, Samuel Brown, and Samuel Kogar, who filed a formal complaint against Koffa. They accused him of corruption, conflict of interest, and nepotism, claiming that his leadership had tarnished the reputation of Liberia’s legislature.
It can be recalled that during Thursday’s session on November 5, 2024, the majority bloc issued its first summons, calling on Internal Affairs Minister Francis Nyumalin to appear before the House on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 10 a.m. Nyumalin to address questions on the implementation of the Local Government Law, a move spearheaded by Representative Ernest Manseah of Nimba District #4. Also summoned were Mo Ali of the LWSC and Transport Minister Sirleaf Tyler. The majority bloc’s intensifying scrutiny of these key officials highlights a broader push to address issues linked to governance and transparency.
In a swift response to the complaint, Representative Steve Tequeah of River Cess County proposed an investigation into Speaker Koffa’s actions, citing Article 90(A) of the Liberian Constitution and House Rules 44 and 45. This motion gained traction, with Representative Ivar Jones calling for Speaker Koffa to recuse himself and submit to the investigation, a proposal promptly adopted. Further complicating matters, Representative Foday Fahnbulleh of Bong County introduced additional allegations, accusing Speaker Koffa of overspending his budget by over $5 million in 2022, during his tenure as Deputy Speaker.
Another controversial element was added to the investigation by Representative Mike Jurry, who moved to include what he referred to as the “Boulevard Palace issues” and “Room 1026,” as well as Speaker Koffa’s comments on Guinea’s diplomatic relations during his appearance on “Spoken Talk.” These motions were adopted, effectively widening the scope of the probe. The session concluded with Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah appointing an investigative committee, chaired by Representative Michael Thomas and co-chaired by Representative Marie Johnson. This committee, which includes Representatives Ernest Manseah, Austine Taylor, Mannah Bishop Johnson, Sam P. Jallah, and Clarence Banks, was tasked with presenting its findings by next Tuesday.
As the majority bloc solidified its stance, tensions with the minority bloc escalated. Reports indicated that letters were sent to several minority members, including Representatives Marvin Cole, Frank Saah Foko, and Abu Kamara, summoning them for questioning over alleged disruptions during a previous session on November 22. The minority, however, has refused to acknowledge these letters, with Representative Jerry Yogboh threatening legal action in his emailed response. Adding to the turmoil, the Acting Chief Clerk of the House reported receiving threats and alleged tampering with his office lock, preventing him from accessing his office.
In a further development, the majority bloc also tackled budget transparency, with Representative Nya Flomo submitting a motion compelling the House Ways, Means, and Finance Committee to deliver a comprehensive budget performance report. Supported by Representative Ivar Jones, this motion passed, mandating Representative Dixon Siebo, the committee chair and a known ally of Speaker Koffa, to submit this report.
With accusations of fiscal mismanagement and unethical behavior mounting, Speaker Koffa’s hold on the gavel appears increasingly tenuous. As tensions rise within the chambers and investigations intensify, the Liberian legislature faces a critical juncture, with implications for both Speaker Koffa’s future and the nation’s political landscape. The coming sessions will reveal whether these fractures can be reconciled or if they will escalate further, impacting governance at a crucial time for Liberia.
