Eric Olson, the former political leader of Liberia’s historic True Whig Party (TWP), has issued a strong concern over on-going political stalemate in the House of Representatives, warning that the 2025 National Budget and, by extension, Liberia’s future is at stake.
Olson voiced strong concerns over the political turbulence, highlighting a crisis of leadership and accountability within the Legislature, particularly under the Speakership of Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa.
His statement reflects growing anxiety about the House’s internal conflicts, which have crippled legislative progress and cast a shadow over Liberia’s democratic and economic stability. “I have been observing the government and governance of Liberia deteriorating over the past years,” Olson declared, calling for a renewed sense of reasoning and responsibility within the Legislature.
Former TWP Political Leader’s criticism is attributed to the legislative impasse that has stalled crucial governmental functions, including the finalization of the 2025 National Budget.
The former TWP leader reminded lawmakers that their duty transcends political allegiances, emphasizing that they are elected to represent the people of Liberia, not individual parties or personal ambitions. “The Constitution and its rules are not mere papers for conveyance,” Olson stated firmly. “They are the foundation of our democracy and must be respected to safeguard the rights and welfare of the Liberian people.”
Olson expressed dismay at the actions of some representatives who, in their attempts to unseat Speaker Koffa, have disregarded procedural rules and democratic norms. “If you don’t have the numbers to remove the Speaker according to your own rules, then you need to live with it,” Olson remarked. He questioned Speaker Koffa’s ability to lead effectively, noting that the Speaker’s lack of majority support undermines his capacity to drive legislative action for the Liberian people. “When the majority of your colleagues lose confidence in you, it becomes nearly impossible to lead effectively,” Olson emphasized, underscoring that leadership relies on trust and mutual respect among legislators.
The TWP leader went on to propose specific reforms aimed at strengthening the Speakership and ensuring that the position is held by individuals with the necessary experience and qualifications. “To hold the office of Speaker, lawmakers should be in their second term, have significant legislative experience, and preferably serve as chair of a major committee,” Olson argued.
Such requirements, he believes, would prevent inexperienced or unqualified candidates from assuming the Speakership, which he warned could degrade the integrity of the House and hinder effective governance.
His statement is not solely directed at Speaker Koffa; he also condemned the entire situation that is paralyzing the House. He urged representatives to resume normal sessions, stating that millions of Liberians are depending on the decisions they make. “Holding the nation hostage over political disagreements is an affront to the democratic principles we claim to uphold,” Olson said. He stressed that the Legislature, as the first branch of government, has a duty to lead by example, both in adhering to the rule of law and prioritizing the country’s growth and development.
“The representatives should focus on their cardinal functions and responsibilities,” Olson urged. He pointed out that the primary role of lawmakers is to hold the Executive accountable, not to mire themselves in factional disputes. He encouraged the House to resolve its internal conflicts through dialogue, negotiation, and adherence to established rules rather than coercion and threats.
Former Political Leader Eric Olson also criticized calls for President Joseph Boakai to intervene in the House’s affairs, deeming such suggestions unconstitutional and a threat to the separation of powers. “Inviting the President to interfere would encroach on legislative independence and set a dangerous precedent,” Olson warned. He suggested that, instead, religious leaders and members of the Council of Churches step in as neutral mediators to facilitate a resolution, reminding lawmakers of their duties to the people.
He further criticized reports that some lawmakers had threatened Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah with removal if he did not support the push to unseat Speaker Koffa. Olson denounced these tactics as undemocratic and counterproductive, emphasizing that consensus, not intimidation, should guide legislative processes. “In a democracy, you cannot threaten someone to embrace your ideology; you must persuade them through reason and constructive dialogue,” he argued.
The current stalemate, Olson warned, jeopardizes Liberia’s financial stability, as the approval of the 2025 National Budget hangs in the balance. With Liberia’s fragile economy, delayed budgetary allocations could severely impact critical services, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. Olson underscored the urgency of resolving the impasse to avoid a scenario where essential services are cut off, placing Liberia’s future at risk. “World leaders make difficult decisions, sometimes stepping aside, not because they are guilty or incompetent, but to allow their country to move forward,” he remarked, subtly suggesting that Speaker Koffa consider such a step if reconciliation remains unattainable.
Olson issued a final plea to the 43 lawmakers pushing for Speaker Koffa’s removal: “Do you want to hold Liberia hostage over a single position, or do you want to serve the people who elected you?” He cautioned against allowing personal vendettas or political ambitions to overshadow the broader needs of the country. Reflecting on recent decisions by U.S. leaders, Olson advised that sometimes stepping aside is the most selfless act a leader can make.
Olson’s call for unity and accountability reflects on millions of Liberians depending on the House’s ability to function effectively and approve a budget that addresses the country’s pressing needs.
Without a swift resolution, Liberia could face not only a budgetary crisis but a profound setback in its democratic development.
