MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives has purchased new chairs in anticipation of today’s legislative session after an incident of vandalism in the Joint Chambers. With damaged property and broken chairs now symbolizing the growing divide within the Liberian Legislature, the Majority Bloc has publicly condemned the attack, which it attributes to “political intimidation” orchestrated by Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa’s faction.
In a press statement issued on Monday, November 11, 2024, Representative Samuel G. Kogar, chairman of the Majority Members of the 55th House of Representatives, sharply criticized the incident, describing it as a deliberate attempt to obstruct the Legislature’s work. “This is a blatant attempt to disrupt the House’s functioning,” Kogar stated, emphasizing the group’s commitment to legislative duties despite efforts to derail the process. The statement also denounced “unlawful actions” and reaffirmed the Majority Bloc’s intention to continue working in service of Liberia’s people. “If it calls for us to sit on the ground to do the Liberia people’s work, we will do it,” Kogar declared. “There will be a session in the joint chambers tomorrow despite the action in the joint chambers.”
Amid accusations of corruption and mounting political pressure, Speaker Koffa faces the possibility of removal. The 43 members of the Majority Bloc blame him for deepening political tensions, arguing that the actions reflect poor leadership and signal the need for change. The anti-Koffa faction views the incident as emblematic of a speaker struggling to maintain control, suggesting that “desperate actions” like this have cost him public trust.
The Majority Bloc, committed to “upholding democratic principles,” has urged citizens and political leaders alike to denounce acts of violence that threaten Liberia’s democracy. “Such intimidation will not deter us from representing the interests of our constituents and ensuring that critical issues affecting our country are addressed in a transparent, responsible manner,” the group asserted.
Meanwhile, Speaker Koffa’s supporters have dismissed the accusations, asserting that the disruption was part of an approved renovation. According to the Pro-Koffa Bloc, the Joint Chambers and the old House chambers were set to undergo renovations, explaining that the dismantling of chairs was a planned part of this process. They argue that there is no vandalism involved, but rather ongoing work to improve the legislative facilities.
As the Majority Bloc remains undeterred in its push for accountability, the situation has heightened political tensions on Capitol Hill. Whether the session will proceed smoothly or bring additional contention remains to be seen, but one point is clear: the Liberian people are witnessing a political drama that could reshape the leadership within the House.
In the face of such tensions, the Majority Bloc has vowed to persevere in the name of stability, urging a shift away from what they deem “gross misbehavior” by Koffa’s camp.
