Monrovia – The impasse in the House of Representatives continues as the Supreme Court has declined Speaker J. Fonati Koffa’s request for a writ of prohibition aimed at halting the activities of the majority bloc. Despite the ruling, the majority bloc remains steadfast, proceeding with sessions in the joint chamber and promising to ensure that due process is followed regarding the six counts against Speaker Koffa.
By: Francis G. Boayue, [email protected]
In a recent conference led by Associate Justice Yormie Gbeisay, the Supreme Court confirmed that it would not stop the majority bloc’s actions but stressed the importance of providing due process in Koffa’s potential removal.
Representative Foday Fahnbulleh, representing Bong County Electoral District 7, stated during an interview with Voice of America that the majority bloc plans to convene in the joint chamber on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to initiate due process proceedings for the Speaker.
“This is a victory for the rule of law,” Rep. Fahnbulleh declared, emphasizing that the nation’s legal framework must be upheld.
Rep. Fahnbulleh said: “The Speaker’s appeal questioned the legitimacy of the majority bloc’s actions, but the Supreme Court declined some of his requests. We will move forward with due process and formally invite him to plenary based on the complaints against him.”
Rep. Fahnbulleh asserted that Koffa has lost the confidence of the majority and, as such, will not be able to continue presiding as Speaker.
He noted that the House will address the six allegations against Koffa, which include conflicts of interest due to his law firm practices, budget violations, and procedural missteps in selecting ECOWAS delegates.
In a parallel statement, Margibi County Electoral District #3’s lawmaker, Ellen Attoh-Wreh, highlighted the necessity of adhering to the constitution and House rules throughout this process.
“We must protect our constitution and ensure that the Speaker is removed only through legal channels,” she stressed, warning that circumventing these rules would set a dangerous precedent for the legislature.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on the House of Representatives and the actions of both the majority bloc and Speaker Koffa in the coming days.
