In a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, Speaker Koffa described the withdrawal of his security detail as an intimidation tactic.
Monrovia – Speaker of the House of Representatives, J. Fonati Koffa, has disclosed that the Executive Branch has informed him of plans to strip him of his immunity and state security, just days after he reported threats against his life and rejected calls to resign.
Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, Speaker Koffa described the withdrawal of his security detail as an intimidation tactic.
“I have officially been informed that all state security will be withdrawn tomorrow,” Speaker Koffa said in a Facebook post. “These actions from the Executive do NOT change the fact that I remain the Speaker of the House of Representatives. This only further strengthens my resolve to fight for upholding the Rule of Law and the Liberian Constitution.”
Intensifying Power Struggle
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between Speaker Koffa and the so-called Majority Bloc in the Legislature, which recently declared his removal as Speaker. Backed by the Executive, the bloc has accused Koffa of corruption and conflict of interest—allegations he has vehemently denied.
Despite the controversial move, Koffa has maintained that his removal was unconstitutional and insists he remains the legitimate Speaker.
Threats Against His Life
The power struggle has taken a dangerous turn, with Speaker Koffa reporting threats against his life just days before the Executive’s plan to withdraw his state security. Analysts and civil society organizations have raised concerns about the potential for political violence amid the impasse.
The Speaker’s refusal to resign has reportedly frustrated the Executive. During a meeting on Monday, President Joseph Boakai urged Koffa to step down, but he declined, citing the Supreme Court ruling he claims validated his position.
In response, the Director of the Executive Protection Service (EPS), Sam Gaye, allegedly threatened to recall EPS officers assigned to Koffa. The Speaker reportedly responded defiantly, stating, “The Executive can go ahead.”
Hours later, Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh issued a legal opinion siding with the Majority Bloc, asserting that the Supreme Court’s ruling favored their position. The opinion was endorsed by the Senate, which voted to recognize Representative Richard Koon of the Unity Party as the legitimate Speaker.
Call for Respect for Rule of Law
The unfolding crisis has drawn the attention of the international community, with diplomatic missions in Monrovia closely monitoring developments.
In response to an inquiry from FrontPage Africa, the United States Embassy emphasized the importance of peaceful and lawful political processes in Liberia.
“The United States wants to see Liberia’s political processes play out peacefully and with respect to the rule of law,” the Embassy stated. “Liberians expect their leaders to uphold democracy and its practices, including open and transparent political processes and peaceful debate.”
The Embassy further urged all parties involved in the crisis to prioritize peace and unity. “It is important that leaders demonstrate unity,” the Embassy added.
As the tensions linger on, the call for adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law underscores the international community’s expectations for stability and good governance in Liberia.
Support for Koffa swells
On social media, Koffa’s resilience has garnered widespread praise.
“We’re with you to the end, Hon. Speaker. One thing I know, they can withdraw everything, but not the speakership. Until they can remove you in keeping with the Constitution, you remain the legitimate speaker of our country,” commented Chris Z. Harris.
Another supporter, Frederick Tinisi Nimene, added: “Speaker, don’t resign. By resigning, you will frustrate millions of Liberians who are with you. All power is inherited by the people.”
Legal Battles Loom
In an another move, Speaker Koffa has filed a bill of information before the Supreme Court, calling for the actions of the Majority Bloc, including their decision to recognize “purported Speaker Koon,” to be declared null and void. He argued that their actions violate the Supreme Court’s ruling and are unconstitutional.
Koffa also petitioned the High Court to compel Justice Minister Tweh to retract his legal opinion, which he claims misinterprets the Court’s judgment.
What Lies Ahead?
As the leadership crisis in the House deepens, questions remain over how the withdrawal of state security will impact Speaker Koffa’s day-to-day operations. The coming days are likely to see heightened political and legal drama, with the Supreme Court’s intervention potentially being a deciding factor in the ongoing impasse.
Liberians are watching closely, as the struggle for control of the House has far-reaching implications for the country’s governance and the balance of power between the Executive and Legislative branches.
