MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Nyahn G. Flomo, the Representative of District 2, Nimba County, has raised serious concerns about what he described as “discriminatory and unfair treatment” regarding the distribution of supplementary staffers within the House of Representatives’ Central Administration. In a letter dated August 30, 2024, and addressed to House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, Representative Flomo highlighted alarming disparities in staffing allocations, which he believes violate both the Constitution of Liberia and the rules of the House.
In the letter, which was obtained by Smart News Liberia, Representative Flomo conveyed his “compliments and best wishes” but did not hold back his discontent over what he described as a blatant violation of the plenary’s agreement. According to Flomo, the plenary had previously agreed that each member of the House of Representatives would have the opportunity to recommend one person for employment at the Central Administration following a staff clean-up and retirement exercise.
However, Flomo expressed shock that this agreement was not honored equally. He disclosed that 14 lawmakers were allocated a disproportionate 64% of the 225 available staff positions, while 19 of his colleagues were left with a mere 8%. This, he argued, represents not only “excessive greed” but also a violation of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution and the rules that govern the House.
Citing Chapter 2, Article 5, Subsection (c) of the Constitution, Flomo reminded Speaker Koffa that the Republic of Liberia is obligated to eliminate sectionalism, tribalism, nepotism, and other corrupt practices. He also quoted several House rules, including Rule 40.1, which calls for honesty and transparency among lawmakers, and Rule 44.1, which mandates that members actively oppose corruption and serve as examples in the fight against it.
Flomo underscored the potential damage this issue could inflict on the reputation of the House of Representatives if it were to become public. He noted that the ongoing disputes with the Civil Service Agency, which has delayed the employment of genuinely recommended staffers, might stem from these internal irregularities. Despite the gravity of the situation, Representative Flomo called for an amicable resolution, urging Speaker Koffa to ensure each representative is allocated a minimum of three staff positions.
In closing, Flomo expressed hope that Speaker Koffa’s leadership would address the concerns raised in the letter. As the issue of staff allocations continues to stir debate within the Legislature, many will be watching to see how the leadership responds and whether the House can uphold its commitment to fairness and transparency.
The Nimba County lawmaker’s bold move to call out these practices shines a spotlight on broader concerns of equity and accountability within Liberia’s legislative body. With calls for reform mounting, it remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold and what actions will be taken to restore confidence in the House’s operations.
