A Probe into Alleged Misconduct: Representative Yekeh Y. Kolubah and the Liberian House of Representatives
The Liberian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the conduct of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Y. Kolubah following accusations of repeated violations of the House’s Standing Rules and Procedures. The complaint, submitted on January 30, 2025, alleges a pattern of disruptive behavior that has undermined the integrity and decorum of the legislative body. The House Plenary, after deliberations, voted to refer the matter to the Committee on Rules, Orders & Administration for a thorough investigation and subsequent recommendations.
The catalyst for this probe appears to be an incident that occurred during a plenary session on January 28, 2025. According to Representative Johnson Williams, who lodged the complaint, Representative Kolubah engaged in a series of actions deemed disrespectful and disruptive. These included insulting fellow lawmakers, disregarding the Speaker’s gavel, and generally disrupting the proceedings, actions that Representative Williams argues brought the House into public disrepute.
Representative Williams’ complaint highlights specific violations of the House’s Standing Rules. He points to Section 42.2, which prohibits disorderly conduct that disrupts legislative proceedings, and Rule 42.1, which mandates that lawmakers uphold the prestige and dignity of the House. A particularly contentious point of contention was Representative Kolubah’s alleged use of the term "juntas" to refer to his colleagues, a term often associated with military rule or dictatorship, which further exacerbated the situation.
Beyond the immediate disruption caused by Representative Kolubah’s alleged actions, Representative Williams expresses concerns about the broader implications of such behavior. He argues that such conduct sets a negative example, particularly for the younger generation, and normalizes a culture of disrespect and potential violence. This, he contends, could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political and social landscape.
The House Committee on Rules, Orders & Administration now bears the responsibility of conducting a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Representative Kolubah. Their task involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and ultimately determining whether the accusations are substantiated. Based on their findings, the Committee will formulate recommendations regarding appropriate disciplinary actions, which could range from a formal reprimand to a temporary suspension from the House. The Committee is expected to present its report to the plenary in the coming weeks.
This investigation carries significant weight, not only for Representative Kolubah’s political future but also for the image and functioning of the Liberian House of Representatives. The outcome will signal the House’s commitment to upholding its rules and maintaining decorum within its proceedings, while also ensuring due process for its members. The public will be closely watching the proceedings as the investigation unfolds and the Committee delivers its findings and recommendations. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining respectful discourse and upholding the integrity of democratic institutions.
