In a pivotal development within the Liberian House of Representatives, a faction of lawmakers attempting to oust Speaker Johnathan Koffa has decided to comply with a Supreme Court mandate urging them to adhere to established legal procedures. On November 4, 2024, Justice Yarmie Quiqui Gbeisay convened representatives from both camps at the Temple of Justice, directing them to conduct their legislative activities in line with legal protocols if they wish to pursue Speaker Koffa’s removal. The ongoing turmoil in the legislature, characterized by the majority coalition’s disruptive tactics in opposing Speaker Koffa, has finally reached a point where the judicial branch intervened to restore order.
Recent weeks have seen the House of Representatives plagued by intense factional disagreements, with those opposing Koffa’s leadership engaging in separate meetings that have stymied legislative operations. This has left his supporters unable to achieve a quorum necessary to advance their proceedings. However, following the Supreme Court’s admonition, the rebel lawmakers expressed their intention to initiate the process of removal within the confines of the law. They confirmed that they had already prepared a communication for an upcoming session presided over by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, who aligned with the opposition in a significant shift that reflects the mounting pressure within legislative ranks.
At the justice conference, key legal representatives for both sides presented arguments that underscored the ongoing conflict surrounding Koffa’s leadership. Former Senator H. Varney Sherman represented the opposing faction, while ex-Solicitor General Cllr. Syrenius Cephas and former Associate Justice Kabineh Ja’neh defended Speaker Koffa. Notably, both parties acknowledged that a formal due process for Koffa’s removal had yet to commence, as he had not been afforded an opportunity to respond to the accusations leveled against him.
As representatives prepared to proceed with their legislative efforts, Foday Fahnbulleh, a prominent member of the opposing bloc, detailed their plans to launch the due process in the joint chamber of the Legislature. He reiterated Justice Gbeisay’s directive to follow procedural law, emphasizing that their actions were lawful and urging the Deputy Speaker’s ongoing authority to preside over the session. This move was cast in light of legal provisions stating that as long as quorum is met, legislative business can progress without unnecessary delay, even amidst ongoing disputes.
Further complicating matters, Montserrado County District #4 Representative Marcus Thomas reflected on the legal ramifications of the ongoing court proceedings. He noted that Speaker Koffa’s recourse to Article 26 of the Constitution indicated his desire for judicial redress concerning potential violations of his rights. Representative Thomas clarified that should the court issue an alternative writ as part of the procedural proceedings, there would be room for both sides to present their responses comprehensively. However, the absence of an alternative writ would permit the majority faction to continue their efforts to bring the matter to a conclusive session.
In summary, the political landscape in Liberia’s House of Representatives is rife with tension, as competing factions vie for control and legitimacy in the face of the Supreme Court’s directives. The lawmakers’ commitment to follow due process marks a critical juncture in this saga, setting the stage for a legal showdown that could redefine the balance of power within the legislature. With Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah now leading the opposition to Koffa, the dynamics of the situation remain fluid, with the potential for significant political repercussions and a possible reconfiguration of alliances as the contentious proceedings unfold.
