As Liberians await the Supreme Court’s final decision on the ongoing leadership crisis in the House of Representatives, religious leaders are calling on lawmakers to respect the rule of law and prioritize national stability over personal ambitions. This leadership impasse, which has persisted for months, has left the House paralyzed, with critical national issues being sidelined amidst the political turmoil.
In a sermon marking the end of Ramadan, Liberia’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Abubakar Sumaworo, speaking at the Gurley Street Mosque in Monrovia, urged lawmakers to accept the upcoming ruling in the interest of peace, governance, and the greater good of the nation.
“The Liberian people trust the Supreme Court as the final arbiter in this matter,” Sheikh Sumaworo stated. “It is crucial that our lawmakers respect its decision and focus on the nation’s progress rather than engaging in endless disputes.”
The Grand Mufti expressed concern that the prolonged impasse has distracted the House of Representatives from addressing pressing national concerns, including economic development, infrastructure, and the well-being of the citizens. “Our leaders should not be consumed by legal battles while the country faces critical challenges. Their duty is to serve Liberia, not to indulge in prolonged political wrangling.”
Sheikh Sumaworo further warned that continued political instability within the lower house could erode public confidence in Liberia’s governance institutions. “If our lawmakers fail to respect the Supreme Court’s decision, it will send a dangerous message that leaders can disregard the law for personal gain. This is not the democracy we strive for,” he added.
Echoing similar sentiments, Sheikh Abdulai Massaley, the former Chairman of the National Muslim Council of Liberia, voiced his concerns about the ongoing power struggle. He warned that the impasse is tarnishing Liberia’s reputation both locally and internationally, painting a picture of instability and weak leadership.
“The inability of our elected lawmakers to resolve their differences paints a negative picture of Liberia. It signals instability, and weak leadership, and discourages investment and development,” Sheikh Massaley said in an interview following his sermon at the Fatima Mosque in Clara Town. “The world is watching, and this ongoing crisis is damaging our image as a democratic nation.”
Sheikh Massaley also accused certain lawmakers of prioritizing personal interests over the nation’s welfare, which he believes is undermining public trust. “Some of these representatives are not acting as role models. Their conduct is eroding the public’s respect. The Liberian people deserve leaders who put the country first.”
The former Muslim Council chairman stressed the importance of respecting the rule of law in maintaining the integrity of Liberia’s democracy. “If the laws that govern us are disregarded by those in leadership, how can we expect ordinary citizens to follow them?” he remarked. “This situation is setting a dangerous precedent for the future.”
As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver its verdict on the leadership dispute, public anticipation is growing. Many Liberians hope that the ruling will provide much needed clarity and restore order to the House of Representatives, allowing lawmakers to refocus on serving the needs of the people. However, concerns persist about whether all parties involved will abide by the ruling or if further political turmoil will ensue.
The leadership crisis in the House has become a symbol of political instability in Liberia, with many calling for an end to the paralysis in governance. The outcome of the Supreme Court’s decision could determine not only the future of the House of Representatives but also the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and fostering good governance.
