Monrovia – Liberia’s Supreme Court is reportedly struggling to reach a unanimous decision in the contentious House Leadership case, with allegations of executive branch interference adding fuel to the controversy.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
The case centers on a lingering dispute between rival blocs in the House of Representatives, Majority Bloc now led by Richard Koon, and the Pro-Koffa Bloc with both parties claiming legitimacy in leading the chamber. The stalemate has sparked concerns over constitutional order and the separation of powers, as lawmakers and political observers await a decisive ruling from the full bench.
Allegations of Bribery Surface
Adding to the drama, Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Y. Kolubah has accused officials of attempting to influence the court’s ruling through financial inducements. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Rep. Kollubah accused his colleagues of initiatives being manipulated.
Said Rep Kolubah: “At 4:00 PM this evening, The Managing Director of Freeport Sekou Hussein Dukuly went to his office and stayed until 7:00 PM, after which he departed for Bella Casa Hotel. He took along with him $900,000 USD, intended to influence the court ruling in favor of the so-called majority Bloc. The money was received by Prince Moye, James Biney and Emmanuel Nuquay on the instructions of Jeremiah Koung.”
Dukuly Denies Claims
Responding to the allegations, Dukuly, who serves as Managing Director of the National Port Authority, categorically denied any involvement, describing Kolubah’s statement as baseless propaganda.
“It’s not only a lie but a terrible propaganda from folks in both houses. This doesn’t pass any reasonable test. Show me a video that I’ve been to Bella Casa, and we can talk then,” Dukuly said.
Heightened Political Tensions
The alleged lobbying has drawn widespread condemnation, with critics warning that such actions, if proven, could undermine judicial independence and public confidence in Liberia’s democracy.
The stalemate in the House Leadership case has already disrupted legislative proceedings, and the lack of clarity from the Supreme Court risks exacerbating the situation. Observers are calling on the Court to act swiftly and impartially to resolve the impasse and restore normalcy to the legislative branch.
What’s at Stake?
The ongoing case has significant implications for governance in Liberia. Observers say a ruling perceived as biased could set a dangerous precedent, while a delay risks deepening the legislative paralysis and eroding public trust in state institutions.
As the nation awaits a decision, the spotlight remains on the Supreme Court to demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law in the face of mounting political pressure.
Lawmakers weigh in
Lawmakers from both sides have been claiming victory, with some hinting on social media of attempted bribery.
Rep. Marvin Cole (District #3, Bong County), a pro-Koffa group member and one of the main figures in the dispute wrote on Facebook. “THE LAW WILL CONTROL. ANYTHING NOT MONEY VICTORY HERE FINALLY!!”
Rep. Musa Bility (District #7 Nimba) also of the Pro-Koffa group wrote: “The Tin Line” has just gotten thinner.”
While another supporter of Speaker Koffa, Rep Frank Saah Foko, Jr. wrote on his Facebook page: “The Law is The Law. Thanks to the Supreme Court for upholding the laws of Liberia. Absolutely, no man is above the Law. Congratulations in advance Hon. Cllr J Fonati Koffa. Thanks for your high level of tolerance.”
James Kolleh, of the Majority Bloc also wrote: “Law is not Public Sentiment.”
Tensions Simmering in Majority Bloc Over Richard Koon’s Leadership
Leaked conversations from the WhatsApp group of the Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives reveal growing tensions over the controversial election of Rep. Richard Koon (District #11, Montserrado County) as Speaker. Koon was hurriedly elected after the bloc declared the Speaker’s seat vacant during one of their sittings.
Some members have expressed dissatisfaction, labeling Koon’s leadership a “disgrace” to the legislative body.
“Since this funny election we had, it’s embarrassing that the man imposed on us is a complete disgrace and embarrassment to this honorable body. Rep. Richard Koon is a mess…” wrote Rep. Gizzie Kollince (District #4, Lofa County) in the chat group.
Kollince’s sentiment was echoed by fellow Lofa lawmaker Rep. Julie F. Wiah (District #2, Lofa), who added, “Wow, so Rep. Koon, you really want to be Speaker too? You think we can risk our integrity for you? Nonsense!!!”
Amid the heated exchanges, Rep. James Kolleh sought to calm the situation, urging his colleagues to remain focused:
“Gentlemen, with all due respect, let’s lower this noise. We’re already winning. The court might rule in our favor. We’re very sure.”
However, Rep. Kollince shot back, expressing frustration:
“Even if we win this case, there will still be another noise. You don’t treat people like children. I’m getting tired of this whole mess!!!”
Rep. Kolleh countered Kollince’s claims, asserting that the election process had been fair:
“Hon. Kollince, we didn’t force you against your will. The process was open, and Hon. Fallah declined. What did you expect from us in the process?”
Kollince, seemingly unsatisfied, retorted: “Kolleh, when you talk like this, I will get really mad. How can you have an election abruptly like that? Who does that? Y’all played us in the process.”
Rep. Kolleh weighed in, defending the election process:
“How can a grown man like you think you were played? Hon. Fallah was given an option to resign before contesting. Did he make use of the opportunity? We never had time, so we acted upon…”
The leaked exchanges highlight deep divisions within the Majority Bloc, raising questions about its cohesion and the legitimacy of Koon’s election as Speaker. With a Supreme Court ruling on the matter still pending, the bloc’s internal discord could complicate its quest for unity and legitimacy.
