Bong County District #3 Representative Josiah Marvin Cole is facing legal action after the Monrovia City Court issued a writ of arrest against him for alleged failure to support his 11-year-old daughter, Rebecca Cole. The writ, signed by Court Clerk Daniel McGill on November 26, 2024, was based on a complaint filed by Clara Asibu, the child’s mother.
Madam Asibu alleges that since the child’s conception, Representative Cole has wilfully neglected his financial responsibilities, leaving both her and the child without sufficient food, clothing, or shelter. She contends that Cole’s actions are unjustifiable and amount to a breach of parental obligations under Section 16.5 of Liberia’s Penal Law, which criminalizes persistent non-support.
Judge Ben Barco, in response to the complaint, instructed law enforcement to “arrest the living body” of Representative Cole and ensure his immediate appearance in court. The official writ accuses him of committing an act that is both illegal and unconstitutional, stating: “The defendant… since the generation of the pregnancy, has failed, refused, and neglected to provide support to the child and her mother, thereby leaving them in need of basic necessities.”
The case has sparked public outrage, with many questioning the commitment of lawmakers to uphold the laws they are elected to represent. Advocates for children’s welfare have expressed solidarity with Madam Asibu, calling for stronger enforcement of parental responsibilities in Liberia.
Representative Cole has yet to make a public statement on the matter, and his legal team has not disclosed how he intends to respond to the allegations. The case is expected to proceed in the coming days as the Monrovia City Court seeks to address the accusations.
This case has reignited discussions on social media around child welfare and parental accountability, with many urging public officials to set an example by adhering to the laws of the land.
By Socrates Saywon
