MONROVIA – House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, displaying confidence and determination, arrived at the Liberia National Police (LNP) headquarters on Capitol Hill, Monrovia, on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, for questioning regarding the December 18, 2024, arson attack on the Capitol Building. Despite being labeled a “person of interest” by the police, Koffa maintained his innocence and vowed to confront what he described as politically motivated allegations.
Flanked by prominent figures of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), including CDC Chairman Atty. Janga Kowo and several lawmakers of the minority bloc of the House of Representatives, Koffa’s arrival was met with a jubilant crowd of supporters singing political songs and chanting his name in solidarity.
Addressing the cheering crowd outside the police headquarters, Koffa expressed gratitude for their support while urging calm and order. “I just wanted to say to all of you who took the time to come out here today to support my appearance, I want to say thank you,” Koffa remarked. “I don’t want us to cause any incident, so there will be no excuse for anyone. I will ask that we begin to disperse so that we all go home safely today. Thank you very much.”
The ongoing investigation stems from a fire that erupted at approximately 6:20 a.m. on December 18, 2024, causing severe structural damage to the Capitol Building. While police have yet to present any evidence directly implicating Koffa, their decision to name him a person of interest has raised concerns among his supporters about the motives behind the investigation.
Koffa, known for his resilience and sharp legal mind, appeared undeterred by the inquiry. Smiling and upbeat, he has consistently rejected any suggestion of involvement in the arson attack, describing the allegations as an attempt by the government to discredit him.
Observers note that Koffa’s public show of strength, bolstered by high-profile opposition figures, highlights his determination to challenge the government’s accusations and defend his integrity. As the investigation continues, the Speaker remains steadfast in his assertion of innocence, maintaining that he has “nothing to do with the situation.”
The developments come amid increasing political tension, with critics accusing the government of using legal mechanisms to target opposition leaders. For Koffa’s supporters, his appearance at the LNP headquarters was not just a legal matter. It was a demonstration of defiance against what they view as a politically charged attempt to weaken a formidable opposition voice.
