MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Amid a legislative impasse on Capitol Hill, Representative Luther Collins of District #2, Gbapolu County, has formally lodged a complaint of alleged bribery and submitted US$14,800 to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) for investigation. Accompanied by Representatives Eugene Kollie and Zinnah A. Norman, Rep. Collins is taking a bold stand against corruption within the House of Representatives.
In his letter to LACC Executive Chairperson Cllr. Alexandera Coleman Zoe, titled “Request for Investigation Into Bribery in the House of Representatives,” Collins outlined the need for an urgent investigation into a bribery scandal allegedly involving 47 lawmakers. He referenced the shocking developments of October 17, 2024, when he exposed a conspiracy to impeach Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa, purportedly driven by a bribery scheme ranging from US$15,000 to US$25,000 per lawmaker.
“We, the Group of Whistleblower Representatives of the 55th National Legislature, request the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to investigate the bribery scandal involving 47 lawmakers,” Collins wrote. “We stand ready to avail ourselves for testimony before your inquiry panel, providing evidence, including documentary, audio, and video recordings.”
During a live Facebook broadcast on October 17, Collins claimed he was offered US$25,000 as part of a coordinated effort to destabilize the leadership of the House. He revealed that he received US$15,000 as an initial payment and shared a list of lawmakers allegedly involved in the scheme.
“For the past two days, rumors have been circulating around the Capitol about impeaching Speaker Koffa,” Collins stated. “I was informed that the bribe offered was US$25,000 per lawmaker. I pretended to be part of the scheme to expose this corruption to the Liberian people. This is not in the best interest of our country.”
The alleged plot is said to have been orchestrated by Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, aiming to realign power within the Ways, Means & Finance Committee, chaired by Rep. Dixon Seeboe, an ally of Speaker Koffa. Collins detailed how he infiltrated the conspiracy, collecting evidence of the bribery attempt and the involvement of key officials.
As the call for accountability intensifies, the Liberian public eagerly awaits the outcomes of this investigation, hoping it will shed light on the dark undercurrents of political maneuvering and corruption within the nation’s legislative body. Collins’ courageous actions may serve as a pivotal moment in the fight against corruption in Liberia’s governance.
The LACC is expected to respond to Collins’ request for investigation, and the political landscape in Liberia may be significantly impacted as more details emerge regarding this alleged bribery scheme.
