“I take cognizance of the ruling from the Supreme Court of Liberia. I’m standing on the side of the law and will remain on course to ensure that no group of members will subvert the constitution of Liberia and the house rules. We intend to take further legal actions to assert our rights before the law in the coming days. I will not resign in the face of such callous disregard to the legal process.” Embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honorable J. Fonati Koffa, has responded to the recent ruling by the Supreme Court Justice-in-Chamber,
On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Justice Gbessay declined to issue a writ of prohibition filed by Speaker Koffa’s Minority Bloc to halt the ongoing removal proceeding by the self-styled “Majority Bloc” of the 55th Legislature.
The Supreme Court Chambers Justice declined to issue a writ of prohibition held between both parties on November 4.
Hours after Justice Gbeisay declined to issue the writ of prohibition, Speaker Koffa made a Facebook post stating that he would pursue further legal actions.
In his statement, Speaker Koffa emphasized that while he respects the court’s decision, it does not mark the end of his legal options, and he remains committed to upholding the Constitution and House rules.
In the ruling, Justice Gbessay found that the request for the writ of prohibition, which was aimed at halting what some lawmakers considered an illegal sitting of the House, would not be granted.
However, Speaker Koffa expressed dissatisfaction with the actions of some members who he believes are attempting to undermine the constitution and the lawful functioning of the legislature.
“I’m standing on the side of the law and will remain on course to ensure that no group of members will subvert the constitution of Liberia and the house rules,” Speaker Koffa said in his statement.
He further added that he intends to take additional legal action in the coming days to assert the House’s rights and ensure the legislative process’s sanctity.
Speaker Koffa, who has been vocal about upholding the principles of the rule of law and legislative integrity, stated that the call for his resignation due to the current dispute would not deter him from his duty.
The dispute stems from ongoing tensions within the House of Representatives, where some members have reportedly attempted to conduct parliamentary sessions outside the established legal framework.
These actions have sparked a broader debate over the interpretation of the legislative rules and the constitutional responsibilities of lawmakers.
In light of the Justice-in-Chambers decision, Speaker Koffa has made it clear that he remains committed to his position as Speaker, and his focus will continue to be on preserving the legal integrity of the House.
He has urged all members to respect the rule of law and the established procedures to maintain the legitimacy of Liberia’s legislature.
As the situation develops, many are closely watching for the next steps Speaker Koffa and his legal team will take to challenge what they consider unlawful behavior among some members of the House.
It’s unclear as to what is going to happen on Capitol Hill in the coming days.
The Majority Bloc ousting to remove Speaker Koffa has started citing some members of the Executive to appear before them on Tuesday, November 11.
This ongoing legal and political battle underscores the continuing challenges within Liberia’s political system as the country’s leaders seek to balance power, legal authority, and constitutional governance.
