Monrovia – Former presidential candidate and prominent Liberian lawyer Cllr. Tiawan S. Gongloe has criticized the recent actions of the “Majority Bloc,” describing their attempts to remove Speaker J. Fonati Koffa without the constitutionally required votes as an illegal power grab that threatens Liberia’s democratic integrity.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a statement titled “Thinking Aloud About My Country, Liberia,” Cllr. Gongloe denounced the self-proclaimed “majority block” of lawmakers, who, despite failing to secure the 49 votes necessary to remove Speaker Koffa, went ahead to elect an alternative Speaker—an act he labeled as a blatant violation of the Constitution.
Defiance of the Supreme Court and Constitutional Violations
Gongloe reminded lawmakers that Liberia’s Supreme Court had already ruled on the matter, emphasizing that any action inconsistent with Articles 33 and 49 of the Constitution is unlawful. He criticized the “majority block” for choosing to disrupt legislative sessions instead of engaging in the proper legal process, calling their actions “patently illegal.”
“It is troubling that both the Executive Branch and the Senate have recognized these unconstitutional actions,” Gongloe stated, adding that ignoring the Supreme Court’s ruling constitutes a flagrant violation of Liberia’s laws.
Speaker Koffa has since filed a Bill of Information before the Supreme Court, notifying it of the unlawful activities of the majority block. Gongloe noted that Liberians are anxiously awaiting the Court’s ruling on the matter, as the political standoff continues to undermine legislative functions.
Shame and Embarrassment for Liberia
Describing the crisis as a national disgrace, Gongloe expressed concern that the actions of these lawmakers are tarnishing Liberia’s international reputation.
“As a Liberian, I believe that the actions of the “majority block” have brought shame, embarrassment, and severe reputational damage to our nation’s image as the oldest democratic republic in Africa,” he said.
“Historically, Liberia has been counted among those nations—not just in Africa—whose government officials understood diplomacy and etiquette in handling official matters, even where they disagree. Yet today, under this regime, decency in official conduct is fast declining. What future are these officials in the Legislature trying to shape for our country?”
ECOWAS Delegations Disrespected
Gongloe also condemned the majority bloc’s refusal to cooperate with two high-level ECOWAS delegations—one led by the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and the other by renowned African diplomat Professor Ibrahim Gambari.
“Liberia, once regarded as a beacon of democracy and good governance, is now facing global embarrassment due to the reckless and unlawful behavior of some members of its Legislature,” he said.
He described the lawmakers’ disrespect towards Gambari as particularly appalling, highlighting his distinguished career, which includes roles as Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, UN Permanent Representative for Nigeria, President of UNICEF, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations for Political Affairs and Joint AU-UN Special Representative for Darfur.
“No patriotic Liberian would ever disrespect a representative of ECOWAS under any circumstance,” Gongloe said, reminding the lawmakers that ECOWAS troops, particularly Nigerians, sacrificed their lives to restore peace in Liberia.
Impact on Liberia’s International Standing
Gongloe warned that this ongoing legislative chaos could jeopardize Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. He recalled Liberia’s historic role in global diplomacy, including its role as a founding member of the League of Nations, the United Nations, and the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union).
“If our leaders today understood Liberia’s role in promoting international peace and security, they would conduct themselves with diplomatic decency and respect for the rule of law,” he argued.
Call for Action and Hope for a Better Liberia
Despite the current crisis, Gongloe remains hopeful about Liberia’s future, calling on citizens to remain vigilant and committed to upholding the rule of law.
“I say to all well-meaning Liberians, both at home and abroad: No retreat, no surrender! The fight for a better Liberia must continue until we elect leaders who believe that government is for service, not for personal gain.”
He urged all Liberians to reject unconstitutional behavior and demand accountability from their leaders.
“Liberia’s status as Africa’s oldest republic and a beacon of democracy is at stake. We cannot stand idly by while our Constitution is trampled upon. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the legacy of those who fought for democracy to uphold the rule of law.”
Gongloe made a rallying call for unity, accountability, and respect for the principles upon which Liberia was founded, stating: “A Better Liberia is Possible.”
