Corruption has long plagued Liberia’s governance structures, threatening the country’s developmental aspirations and undermining public trust. Recent allegations surrounding the House of Representatives (HoR) have brought these issues into sharp focus, revealing a deep-seated culture of favoritism, exploitation, and self-interest among the country’s lawmakers. At the center of the controversy is the alleged misuse of a supplementary payroll, implicating high-profile figures such as Bong County Representative Marvin Cole, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, and HoR Deputy Controller Hilary Sackie.
The scandal gained traction after investigative journalist James Samuel Goodday Flomo began publishing a series of exposés on social media, uncovering names reportedly listed on the payroll. These revelations suggest that individuals with no legitimate connections to legislative work have been receiving financial benefits. Representative Cole, for instance, is accused of including employees from his private institution on the payroll, sparking widespread public outrage and further diminishing trust in Liberia’s already troubled legislature. Meanwhile, Sackie has been accused of placing Paynesville FC players and officials on the supplementary payroll, deepening the scandal.
Adding to the controversy are allegations against Speaker Koffa, who is accused of placing journalists and loyal allies on the payroll to secure favorable media coverage and public support. Critics argue that these individuals have become vocal defenders of Koffa’s leadership, leveraging their platforms and influence to discredit efforts aimed at his removal. This alleged exploitation of public resources underscores a troubling pattern of prioritizing personal political interests over the country’s progress and development.
Speaker Koffa, however, has refused to step down, dismissing the allegations against him as politically motivated and unconstitutional. He claims that procedural errors marred the attempts to unseat him, and he remains resolute in maintaining his position. Yet, his refusal has done little to quell the growing dissatisfaction among his colleagues and the public, with many viewing his stance as an attempt to preserve a network of patronage rather than uphold democratic principles.
The controversy extends beyond the actions of individual lawmakers, highlighting systemic flaws in Liberia’s governance framework. The supplementary payroll, intended to support essential legislative operations, has become a symbol of how state resources can be manipulated for personal gain. This misuse emphasizes failure of accountability and oversight within the HoR, raising critical questions about its commitment to serving the public good.
For a country struggling with poverty, inadequate healthcare, and a struggling education system, the diversion of resources to sustain political loyalists is especially egregious. Funds that could be used to address pressing social and economic challenges are instead being misappropriated, leaving ordinary Liberians to bear the burden of poor governance.
The scandal has also generated debate among political analysts, with some advising Speaker Koffa to consider resignation as a strategic move. According to Gabriel Nah, a noted commentator, stepping down could offer Koffa an opportunity to rehabilitate his public image and potentially position himself favorably for future political engagements. However, others argue that his resignation alone will not address the systemic issues that allowed the payroll abuses to flourish in the first place.
The crisis stresses the need for robust reforms to strengthen Liberia’s governance structures. Independent audits, stricter financial controls, and clear conflict-of-interest policies are necessary to prevent similar abuses in the future. Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability within the legislature will require sustained public pressure and a commitment to transparency at all levels of government.
The role of civil society and the media in this effort cannot be overstated. Investigative journalism, as exemplified by Flomo’s work, plays a critical role in exposing corruption and holding public officials accountable. However, allegations that some journalists are complicit in the misuse of the supplementary payroll highlight the challenges of ensuring media independence and integrity.
Public engagement will also be crucial in pushing for change. Citizens must demand accountability from their leaders, rejecting the notion that corruption is an inevitable aspect of governance. Civil society organizations, advocacy groups, and grassroots movements have a vital role to play in amplifying these demands and ensuring that public pressure translates into meaningful action.
The current scandal serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked corruption. It threatens to wear away not only Liberia’s democratic foundations but also its social and economic stability. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including lawmakers, civil society, and the international community.
Liberia stands at a critical juncture. The actions of its leaders will determine whether the country can emerge from this crisis with renewed integrity and purpose, or continue to falter under the weight of its governance failures. The choice between progress and stagnation lies in the hands of those entrusted with the country’s future. The question is whether they will rise to the challenge or remain mired in self-serving practices that have long hindered Liberia’s potential.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has undertaken a sweeping review of its supplementary payroll, resulting in the removal of multiple individuals whose employment has generated questions of transparency and propriety. Among those affected is Isaac Garyeazon Redd Sr., former Deputy Director of the Liberia Broadcasting Service (LBS) and media consultant for the House. His removal was confirmed on December 22, 2024, by Representative James M. Kolleh, Chairperson of the Rules, Order, and Administration Committee.
Redd, who earned $1,000 monthly during a brief tenure from September to November 2024, was initially appointed under the leadership of former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. However, his role became a point of contention after Koffa’s ouster, with critics questioning the legitimacy and necessity of his appointment. The controversy surrounding Redd underscores broader concerns about how payroll resources were managed under Koffa’s leadership.
Other removals include Winston Blyden and Jallah Grayfield, both journalists with ties to private entities. Blyden, a reporter for Representative Abu Kamara’s radio station, was placed on the supplementary payroll despite his external affiliation—a move seen as inconsistent with government employment norms. These dismissals are part of a larger effort by the current House leadership to eliminate irregularities and correct staffing decisions deemed inappropriate.
The payroll review has also drawn attention to practices under suspended Representative Marvin Cole. Four journalists employed by Cole’s radio station in Bong County were found on the House’s supplementary payroll, each receiving $300 monthly. Additionally, two other individuals, Emory T. Saylae and Mark Nimene, were listed on the payroll, earning $800 and $300 respectively. Nimene’s inclusion is particularly controversial, as he reportedly works for a political organization run by Cole’s wife.
