In a candid statement following last week’s tensions in the Liberian Legislature, Deputy Speaker J. Fonati Koffa expressed regret over recent events and emphasized the importance of resolving internal disagreements through negotiation rather than confrontation.
Speaker Koffa echoed the sentiments of the American Ambassador, agreeing that dialogue is the best path forward.
“We will be talking to our friends and brothers who have grievances,” Koffa said. “We are a little embarrassed by what transpired last week, but we want to assure the public that it will not happen again. We will take our time at the Legislature to work through whatever issues we have to restore the confidence of the Liberian people.”
The Deputy Speaker stressed that, despite the internal rifts, the Legislature remains committed to its primary responsibility—serving the Liberian people. “This is a family here, and while we sometimes disagree, even loudly, at the end of the day, the people of Liberia are our highest responsibility and concern,” Koffa added.
He reassured the public that efforts are being made to address the situation, noting that all 72 lawmakers have apologized to their constituents. Koffa also emphasized that the disagreement among lawmakers was over tactics and attitudes, not principles, and that the Legislature will continue to stand united.
In his closing remarks, Koffa expressed optimism about restoring order and promised to bring the Legislature back to a state that meets the expectations of the Liberian people in the coming hours.
“We are forced to find a negotiated way out of any crisis we have because of the Liberian people,” Koffa concluded.
