By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA — A major internal dispute has erupted within the House of Representatives following a formal complaint by Musa Hassan Bility, who has accused the Rules, Order and Administration Committee of violating due process in its handling of proceedings involving Yekeh Kolubah.
In a communication addressed to House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon and members of the 55th Legislature, Bility expressed what he described as “deep concern and a profound sense of duty” over the manner in which the committee conducted its hearing. The complaint follows a tense appearance by Kolubah before the committee, which is investigating his controversial statements on the Liberia–Guinea border dispute.
Bility did not mince words in his assessment, describing the proceedings as “a serious departure from the principles of fairness, due process, and orderly procedure.” He warned that the handling of the case raises troubling questions about the protection of lawmakers’ rights within the Legislature itself.
According to Bility, one of the most alarming aspects of the hearing was the restriction placed on Kolubah’s legal team. He stated that the lawmaker was effectively denied the opportunity to be properly represented by counsel, noting that his lawyers were not allowed to meaningfully participate in the proceedings.
“What transpired… was troubling, improper, and contrary to the minimum standards of fairness required in any quasi judicial proceeding,” Bility asserted. He emphasized that when a body exercises quasi-judicial authority, it must ensure that the accused is given a full and fair opportunity to be heard, including through legal representation.
The Nimba County lawmaker further argued that the committee proceeded without clearly outlining the legal basis of the allegations against Kolubah. He pointed out that there has been no specific reference to any provision of the Constitution, House rules, or statutory law that the Montserrado lawmaker is alleged to have violated.
“This is not a small procedural error. It is a grave matter,” Bility warned, stressing that vague accusations and lack of clarity undermine the legitimacy of the entire process. He cautioned that such actions could erode public confidence in the Legislature and set a dangerous precedent.
Bility also raised concerns that the committee continued its proceedings even in Kolubah’s absence, without first ensuring that he had adequate time to review the allegations and evidence against him. He argued that such conduct runs counter to fundamental principles of justice and fairness.
“Today it is Hon. Yekeh Kolubah. Tomorrow it may be any one of us,” Bility stated, warning his colleagues about the broader implications of what he described as procedural overreach. He urged lawmakers to recognize that failure to uphold due process for one member could ultimately weaken protections for all.
In his communication, Bility called on Plenary to take immediate action, including a full review of the committee’s conduct and a temporary halt to the ongoing proceedings. He also proposed that the Judiciary Committee or another competent body be tasked with ensuring that the investigation aligns with constitutional and legal standards.
Additionally, he demanded that Kolubah be provided with all allegations, supporting evidence, and clear legal citations, while insisting that his right to full legal representation be respected without interference.
“This matter goes beyond one individual. It concerns the credibility of this House and the democratic values we claim to defend,” Bility concluded, urging his colleagues to act with “urgency, fairness, and wisdom.”
