Monrovia, Liberia – The ongoing power struggle within the House of Representatives has taken a new turn, with loyalists of Speaker Fonati Koffa engaging in disruptive behavior that signals a desperate attempt to retain his leadership position.
When over 40 lawmakers signed a resolution for Koffa’s removal, it was initially seen by some as a politically motivated attack.
Despite their concerns about conflict of interest and corruption, their actions were dismissed as part of a political plot, especially given the timing of their move against the Speaker.
In the public’s view, Koffa’s troubles started when he attempted to introduce an audit of the House, a move that shocked many.
However, the recent acts of hooliganism by his supporters show a different narrative: a clear sign of desperation and defeat.
Koffa, along with his loyalists, continues to call for justice and adherence to the rule of law, yet their actions paint a contradictory picture. One glaring instance was when Koffa’s team locked the doors to the main chamber, blocking Representative Thomas Fallah and the majority bloc from entering with their resolution. This incident raises questions about their supposed commitment to legal procedures and due process.
Koffa’s efforts to use the judiciary as a tool to halt the majority bloc’s activities also backfired. He filed a case asking the court to invalidate their actions, but the judge declined to grant his request.
Instead of accepting the court’s decision, Koffa allegedly removed the chairs used by the majority bloc in the joint chambers, without prior notice to his colleagues or the Senate, which co-owns the space. Such actions further undermine his claim of supporting due process.
The most recent act of desperation occurred when Koffa’s loyalists reportedly used pepper spray to disrupt the majority bloc’s activities. This move contradicts their repeated calls for following the rule of law and respecting procedures.
These actions indicate a Speaker who has lost the confidence of the majority. Despite his efforts to persuade his colleagues, Koffa has failed to secure their support. It appears that he is now being advised to hold on to his position, even if it means stalling legislative processes. This tactic could harm the governance efforts of the JNB administration and play into the hands of the opposition ahead of the 2029 elections.
In a previous editorial, DN News highlighted the growing challenges Koffa faces, describing him as a “drowning Speaker” seeking any lifeline. His attempts to secure intervention from Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Senate Protem Nyonblee Karngar Lawrence are a clear indication of his vulnerable state. As the political battle intensifies, the actions of Koffa’s loyalists only serve to underscore his diminished influence and the increasing likelihood of his removal from the leadership of the House of Representatives.
