MONROVIA – Renowned legal expert and former presidential candidate Cllr. Tiawan S. Gongloe has strongly criticized the actions of a group of lawmakers in Liberia’s House of Representatives, warning that their unconstitutional maneuvers threaten the country’s democratic standing. Gongloe, in a statement reflecting on Liberia’s political landscape, expressed deep concern over what he described as an illegal attempt to unseat the Speaker of the House without following constitutional procedures.
The controversy stems from a faction within the legislature that failed to secure the required 49 votes, two-thirds of the 73-member House, to remove Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. Despite their failure to meet the constitutional threshold, the group proceeded to elect another Speaker, an action Gongloe argues is both unlawful and in defiance of a Supreme Court ruling that affirms the existing leadership structure of the House.
“This is a blatant violation of the Constitution, and the Supreme Court has already made its stance clear,” Gongloe stated, emphasizing that the ongoing crisis undermines the rule of law. He lamented that both the Executive Branch and the Senate have chosen to recognize the disputed election, disregarding the judiciary’s authority in the matter.
Beyond the constitutional breaches, Gongloe also condemned the lawmakers’ treatment of visiting delegations from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), including a mission led by respected African diplomat Professor Ibrahim Gambari. He described their actions as “openly disrespectful and plainly rude,” arguing that such behavior could damage Liberia’s international reputation and weaken its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
“Liberia has a rich history of contributing to global diplomacy, yet some of our current officials seem unaware or indifferent to this legacy. The level of ignorance displayed by these so-called lawmakers is not only embarrassing but dangerous,” Gongloe remarked. He reminded Liberians that the country played a pivotal role in the formation of the United Nations and the African Union’s predecessor, the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
He further accused the faction of eroding democratic norms, arguing that their actions amount to a reckless abuse of power. “This is a nation founded on the principles of democracy and justice. To see its leaders engage in such unconstitutional behavior is disheartening,” he said.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Gongloe remains hopeful that Liberia can reclaim its democratic integrity. He called on citizens to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to undermine the Constitution. “No retreat, no surrender. We must continue to fight for a Liberia where public office is for service, not self-enrichment,” he declared.
