In departure from past practices where the House Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance traditionally spearheaded budget hearings, this year’s process continues to take a contentious turn. With divided factions within the House of Representatives laying claim to authority over the hearings, Liberia’s legislative process is at an unprecedented crossroads.
The national budget, a critical document that outlines the fiscal allocations for 2025, is essential for the government’s smooth operation.
Typically, lawmakers deliberate and summon heads of government institutions to justify their allocations. However, as the Majority Bloc announced plans to commence hearings this Monday, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa issued a stern warning through an official communication, challenging the legality of such actions.
The Majority Bloc is capitalizing on the Supreme Court’s latest ruling where it clarified that there is no constitutional authority to compel attendance to form a quorum. With this ruling, the Court validated the legality of decisions made by the Majority Bloc.
With this legal clarification, the situation remains volatile. The Majority Bloc has announced the resumption of budget hearings on Monday, focusing on the revenue component, while the regular session is set for Tuesday to address pressing legislative matters.
In response to the ongoing rift, the Leadership of the House has issued a directive warning against unauthorized budget hearings. According to the statement, any such activities conducted outside the purview of Hon. Dixon Seboe, Chairman of Ways, Means, and Finance, would contravene the Supreme Court’s ruling and hold no legal standing.
“All spending entities are hereby advised not to honor any invitation or appear for hearings not scheduled by the designated chairman. Any actions to the contrary will be considered ultra vires and devoid of legal recognition,” the statement read.
The Leadership has urged absent members to seek legal clarification rather than engage in actions that undermine the legislature’s integrity. A session scheduled for Tuesday, December 10, aims to resolve the impasse and restore unity within the House.
As the House grapples with this crisis, questions linger about former Speaker Koffa’s role and his recent assertion on social media about transitioning from leadership. With his removal affirmed by both legislative processes and the Supreme Court, the House faces the monumental task of restoring its honor and functioning in the interest of the Liberian people.
Members of the Majority Bloc have pledged their commitment to transparency, constitutional adherence, and the prioritization of national interests. However, the deepening rift between the factions threatens to derail the critical process of passing the 2025 national budget.
The Liberian public awaits a resolution to this impasse, which has profound implications for governance and service delivery in the country. Will the divided House find a way to bridge the gap, or will the discord further weaken Liberia’s legislative body? Only time will tell.
