The Majority Bloc in Liberia’s House of Representatives has taken a significant step forward in its campaign to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa with the recent defection of two critical lawmakers from the Pro-Koffa camp.
Montserrado District #17 Representative Bernard Benson and Gbarpolu District #1 Representative Sinnah Norman, both members of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), have abandoned their allegiance to Speaker Koffa, delivering a critical blow to his chances of retaining his position. Their decision has increased the Majority Bloc’s numbers from 43 to 45 members, moving them closer to the constitutional threshold required to remove the Speaker.
The defections were revealed on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, shocking many Liberians, as both lawmakers had previously pledged unwavering support for Speaker Koffa.
Representative Sinnah Norman, a vocal critic of the Majority Bloc, reversed his stance and announced his alignment with the bloc on social media. He wrote, “The people’s work needs to be done. I don’t find pleasure in keeping the Country hostage. Let’s give the development the chance. The will of the people.”
Montserrado District #17 Representative Bernard Benson, who had earlier declared his loyalty to Speaker Koffa, also defected. On October 31, Benson posted on social media, affirming his support for Koffa and stating, “I am resolved and resolute… I’m on the Integrity Bloc. I’m with Hon. Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa to the very end. No business as usual.” Despite this public declaration, Benson joined the Majority Bloc, citing his commitment to advancing Liberia’s development.
The defections have deepened the challenges faced by Speaker Koffa, highlighting the fluid nature of political alliances in Liberia. The actions of Representatives Benson and Norman have sparked widespread disbelief among citizens, who view the developments as indicative of the unpredictability and personal interests often driving Liberian politics.
As the Majority Bloc prepares to scrutinize the Draft National Budget, some observers believe the defections reflect lawmakers’ strategic maneuvering to secure influence over the budget’s passage.
The Majority Bloc now has just four members, short of the 49 needed to meet the constitutional requirement for removing Speaker Koffa. With their numbers steadily increasing, the push to unseat Koffa is gaining traction, leaving Liberians eagerly watching how the unfolding political drama will impact the Country’s governance.
