Weeks ago, prior to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the leadership of the Liberian Senate announced the suspension of submitting legislative tools to the House of Representatives until the Supreme Court proceedings were concluded.
This decision was finalized during a Senate leadership meeting held before the start of one of its recent sessions. The Senate’s move came amid public reports suggesting it had been conducting business with the majority bloc in the House. Notably, the Draft National Budget, a critical legislative tool, has been affected by this decision.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, which has been described as “ambiguous,” both factions in the House remain steadfast, maintaining their respective positions and claiming victory and legitimacy. The House of Representatives is currently mired in political tensions as the majority bloc begins budget hearings, an action heavily contested by the Pro-Koffa Bloc.
Since this morning, the Capitol Building has become a focal point of contention, with members of the minority bloc seen on camera vehemently challenging the budget hearings conducted by the majority bloc. Adding to the drama, government officials from the Executive Branch, invited by the majority bloc, were escorted by officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP), an unusual sight within the halls of the Capitol.
In the midst of these developments, the Liberian Senate has yet to take a definitive stance on the matter, though its role is pivotal in passing the 2025 Draft National Budget. Traditionally, the Senate and the House of Representatives convene a joint conference committee to finalize the draft budget after both chambers have completed their respective hearings and reviews.
Unlike the House, the Senate has no internal impasse and is currently scrutinizing the budget. However, its next steps depend on resolving the question of which faction of the House it will collaborate with to ensure the budget’s passage.
Since the Supreme Court ruling, Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonble Karngar-Lawrence has not announced which faction the Senate will engage with. When contacted by Verity News, the Senate disclosed that it plans to deliberate on the matter during its next session, scheduled for Tuesday, December 9.
The Senate’s Director of Press Bureau, Alfred Johnson, stated that the leadership has emphasized the need for the full Senate’s involvement in making such a critical decision. Johnson further noted that the Senate is committed to taking actions aligned with the law.
As it stands, all eyes are on the Liberian Senate. Its impending decision will not only shape the future of the 2025 Draft National Budget but also potentially influence the broader resolution of the ongoing House impasse.
