In an attempt to prevent members of the “majority bloc” from holding their sitting, some unknown individuals, reportedly loyal to House Speaker Fonati Koffa, allegedly pepper-sprayed the joint chamber.
Our reporter in the chamber said the incident occurred moments after the majority bloc members entered to conduct their session.
Coughing, sneezing, and red eyes were observed among many occupants, including lawmakers.
The unidentified individuals also broke down the door to the canteen, just a few steps away from the joint chamber entrance, in an attempt to enter. However, security guards loyal to the majority bloc prevented them from gaining access.
Our reporter added that prior to the pepper spray attack, the air conditioning units were disconnected, leaving many representatives fanning themselves with handbills and sheets to cool off.
Dressed like a “Ninja”, the chairman of the majority bloc, Nimba Representative Samuel Kogar, coughed incessantly. Meanwhile, James Kolleh of Bong nearly collapsed but was revived with a bottle of water and a nose mask.
Despite the extremely chaotic situation, the majority bloc continued and completed their session.
The session witnessed the appearance of Internal Affairs Minister Francis Sakila Nyumalin, Transport Minister Sirleaf Tyler, and Mo Ali, Managing Director of LWSC. They were summoned based on separate communications from members of the majority bloc concerning their respective sectors.
Their appearance defied a warning from Speaker Koffa to President Boakai that none of his lieutenants should appear before the majority bloc.
Meanwhile, the majority bloc has set up a committee to investigate House Speaker Fonati Koffa on allegations of corruption, conflict of interest, and impropriety.
While the investigation is ongoing, Speaker Koffa will recuse himself, according to a motion by Representative James Kolleh.
