MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In a critical diplomatic engagement, the United States Ambassador to Liberia, Mark Tuner, met with former President George Weah on Monday, November 25, 2024. Weah, who leads the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), discussed with Ambassador Tuner the escalating tensions within Liberia’s House of Representatives.
According to sources, Ambassador Tuner stressed the importance of maintaining peace and respecting the rule of law. The Ambassador reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s democratic process and called on both past and current leaders to demonstrate unity during these challenging times.
“The United States wants to see Liberia’s political process play out peacefully and with respect to the rule of law. Now more than ever, Liberia’s leaders past and present need to show unity,” Tuner reportedly emphasized.
Following the meeting, Representative Taa Wongbe expressed his appreciation for Weah’s leadership, particularly in the context of safeguarding the rule of law. Wongbe remarked, “The 2nd R in ARREST is Rule of Law. Our international partners are watching and referencing ‘rule of law.’ This fight is not about Hon. Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa. I stand with the R in the ARREST Agenda – ‘Rule of Law.’ The LAW must prevail.”
Wongbe’s comments align with growing concerns over efforts to remove House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa without adherence to due process. This political wrangling has drawn widespread criticism from civil society and international observers.
Political commentator Vandalark R. Patricks also weighed in, emphasizing the need to uphold constitutional principles. “The ongoing political wrangling at the House of Representatives should not destroy the image of our country. The attempt to remove the Speaker without due process by some angry lawmakers is unconstitutional,” he said.
Patricks lauded the U.S. Embassy’s position, stating, “We maintain that no one is supporting the Speaker as an individual in this matter, but the law. All we are asking for is the rule of law to be upheld. We congratulate the United States for adding its voice to the many calling on the so-called majority bloc of the House of Representatives to respect the rule of law.”
The intervention of the U.S. Ambassador emphasizes the gravity of the current political crisis and highlights the international community’s vested interest in preserving Liberia’s democratic stability. As tensions persist, the focus remains on ensuring a peaceful resolution that adheres to Liberia’s legal framework.
