MONROVIA – Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, J. Fonati Koffa, tendered his resignation on Monday, May 12, 2025, bringing to an end months of tension and uncertainty within the Legislature. Koffa, addressing journalists, dismissed allegations of bribery surrounding his decision, stating, “If I wanted to take money before I resign, this is not the best time. It is not as valuable as it was before the Supreme Court ruling. We sat down here for 7 months without salaries and benefits, and no gas, then I heard people accusing me of taking money.”
Koffa’s resignation comes amid a prolonged leadership crisis in the House and growing frustration among lawmakers over unpaid salaries and benefits. He spoke candidly about the mounting pressure on his office and staff, revealing that more than 60 employees under his leadership had gone unpaid for months. “You only see Fonati Koffa, but you don’t see the people behind him. How long can I ask my 60 employees who have not received salaries for months to hold on? How can I ask my colleagues, whose salaries and benefits have been withheld for months, to hold on?” he questioned.
In a moment of reflection, the Grand Kru District #2 Representative quoted scripture to underscore the gravity of his decision: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,” citing 2 Timothy 4:7.
In his official letter addressed to Chief Clerk Mildred Sayon, Koffa wrote, “Please inform the members of my resignation from the Office of Speaker effective 12 noon today. In accordance with the Constitution and our rules, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah will become presiding officer and acting Speaker until a new Speaker is elected.” He concluded his correspondence with gratitude, thanking his colleagues for entrusting him with the leadership of the House.
The House of Representatives formally acknowledged receipt of Koffa’s resignation and announced that it will convene on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. to hold elections for a new Speaker. The vote comes at a pivotal time for the 55th Legislature, as lawmakers seek to restore order and credibility in the wake of months of disarray.
Three contenders have emerged as frontrunners in the upcoming election: Rep. Musa Hassan Bility, Rep. Richard Koon, and Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah. The majority coalition and the Rule of Law Caucus are currently engaged in intensive consultations, while supporters of Rep. Koon, whose legitimacy has been under scrutiny, are rallying to secure votes.
The outcome of the Speaker election is expected to shape the legislative direction of the House for the remainder of the term. As the candidates put forth competing visions for leadership, the vote will determine not only who presides over legislative proceedings but also how the body addresses urgent national issues in a time of growing public dissatisfaction.
In the wake of Koffa’s departure, the House leadership has vowed to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. As the nation watches closely, lawmakers prepare to make a consequential choice that could redefine governance at the legislative level.
