By Wilmot Konah
Bong County District Three Representative Marvin Cole has formally apologized to Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon and members of the House of Representatives following an incident on Tuesday in which he occupied the Speaker’s chair before the start of session and made remarks that lawmakers say violated the rules of the House.
Cole appeared before the House Committee on Rules, Orders and Administration on Wednesday to answer allegations stemming from the incident, which has generated considerable debate within the Legislature and among the public.
During the hearing, the Bong County lawmaker appeared calm and remorseful as he addressed committee members. He acknowledged his actions and sought forgiveness from both the Speaker and his legislative colleagues, insisting that his conduct was never intended to undermine the authority of the Speaker or disrespect the institution of the House of Representatives.
In his apology to the House Leadership, Cole pleaded for mercy and urged lawmakers not to support proposals calling for his suspension. “I kindly request you to convey my sincere apologies to the Speaker and Plenary. I regret my actions or statements made yesterday while seated in the seat of the Honorable Speaker of the 55th Legislature.” He stated. “This action of mine was not intended to undermine the authority of the Speaker or spew negativity on my colleagues’ character,” Cole stated.
The lawmaker further emphasized that he harbors no ill feelings toward Speaker Koon and remains committed to upholding the rules, procedures, and traditions of the House of Representatives.
The controversy erupted on Tuesday when Cole was seen seated in the Speaker’s chair while Speaker Koon was present at the Capitol. Several lawmakers viewed the action as a violation of House protocol and a sign of disrespect to the Office of the Speaker.
Following the incident, some members of the House recommended disciplinary measures against the Bong County lawmaker, including a proposal for a two-month suspension from legislative activities.
Cole, however, appealed to his colleagues to temper discipline with compassion, arguing that the incident was not motivated by malice and should not be interpreted as an attack on the Speaker or fellow lawmakers.
Meanwhile, the House Committee on Rules, Orders and Administration is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to plenary on Thursday. The full House will then deliberate on the report and determine whether disciplinary action should be taken against the representative.
Speaking after the hearing, Committee Chairperson James Kolleh said the investigation is being conducted in accordance with Tuesday’s mandate from plenary and the established rules governing the House of Representatives.
Kolleh noted that the committee’s responsibility is to establish the facts surrounding the incident and provide recommendations consistent with the House’s procedures and standards of conduct.
The committee’s report is expected to play a critical role in determining whether Representative Cole faces suspension or receives a lesser sanction following his public apology and appeal for forgiveness.
As lawmakers prepare to consider the recommendations, many observers are closely watching the proceedings, viewing the matter as a test of the House’s commitment to enforcing its rules while also allowing room for reconciliation and accountability.
