Vandalark R. Patricks, a firebrand political activist, has issued a stark warning over what he describes as a looming constitutional crisis that could delegitimize President Joseph Boakai’s administration. Patricks, a vocal advocate for sustainable governance in Liberia, asserts that current efforts within the House of Representatives to remove Speaker J. Fonati Koffa are being conducted in violation of constitutional principles, specifically Article 49, which outlines the procedural requirements for removing a sitting Speaker.
Patricks argues that the push to remove Speaker Koffa reflects a more profound disregard for the rule of law and constitutional protections, signaling a troubling trend for the Boakai administration. “Liberians cannot sit by and allow a small group of selfish individuals to manipulate and violate the constitution for political gain,” he stated, emphasizing that any removal attempt must align strictly with the nation’s supreme law. According to Patricks, an attempt by lawmakers to unilaterally push through Koffa’s removal undermines the checks and balances essential to Liberia’s democratic stability.
Citing Article 49 of the Liberian Constitution, Patricks stressed that removing a speaker requires stringent adherence to legislative protocol and respect for constitutional frameworks. Article 49 delineates the formal process by which a speaker may be removed, ensuring a transparent and legal path that protects against arbitrary actions. Patricks urged Liberians, particularly constituents in Nimba and Margibi Counties, to demand that their lawmakers withdraw from any unconstitutional maneuvers. “This isn’t about Koffa or any individual; it’s about upholding the constitution and safeguarding the best interests of the Liberian people,” he emphasized.
The Threat to Legislative Functionality:
Patricks also highlighted a significant implication for President Boakai’s administration if the legislative process continues in its current form. Article 40 of the Liberian Constitution mandates that the Senate and House of Representatives coordinate their sessions in Monrovia and refrain from adjourning unilaterally for more than five days without mutual consent. This provision promotes coordination and cohesion, preventing any branch from exerting undue influence over national governance.
Patricks argues that by disregarding Article 40, lawmakers risk fragmenting the government and setting a dangerous precedent that could render the current administration illegitimate. “A government cannot stand on one leg,” Patricks warned, adding that any attempt to undermine constitutional provisions risks invalidating the administration’s authority. He emphasized that Liberia’s democratic foundation relies on functional cooperation among the three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial.
The political activist also referenced an online poll indicating that most Liberians oppose Koffa’s removal. He argues that this public opinion reminds lawmakers that their actions must align with the people’s collective will. The activist appealed to the Unity Party (UP), urging its leadership to counsel party-aligned lawmakers against engaging in destabilizing tactics, particularly given their lack of majority support in the legislature. “If the UP does not have the numbers to make legitimate legislative changes, then it should avoid actions that would violate constitutional norms,” Patricks stated.
Patricks argues that if the legislature fails to heed Article 40 by Tuesday and Thursday, October 29 and 31, 2024, it could lead to a constitutional crisis.
The failure of the Senate to coordinate with the House of Representatives would contravene Article 40, effectively isolating one branch and, consequently, undermining the entire governmental structure. According to Patricks, such a development would delegitimize President Boakai’s administration, creating a governance crisis that could erode both domestic and international confidence in Liberia’s commitment to constitutional rule.
With Liberia’s history as a backdrop, Patricks insists that Liberians must remain vigilant in defending the constitution from political manipulation. “The pages of our history have not vanished; Liberians must stand guard against any attempt to repeat the political overreach and disregard for the rule of law that has haunted us in the past,” he remarked.
He concluded with a call to action, urging the Liberian people to demand constitutional adherence from their representatives and prevent what he describes as a potential “constitutional coup.”
