Former Speaker Fonati Koffa and Montserrado County Senator Darius Dillon have expressed their opposition to the House Majority’s proposal to create 14 new representative seats, arguing that it violates Liberia’s Constitution.
Koffa emphasized, “The House majority passed a resolution to create new representative seats, assuming powers they do not have. Article 80(e) is the controlling legal authority.”
He warned that the proposal would disenfranchise the Southeast region, which is already underrepresented in the legislature. Koffa stated, “The proposed creation of new seats is a complete disenfranchisement of the Southeast region of Liberia.”
In a Facebook post, Senator Dillon clearly stated the house in complete a “error”.The Liberian Lawmaker highlights the constitutional aspects, pointed to Articles 80(c) and 80(d) of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution, which govern the allocation of representative seats.
He argued that the House Majority’s proposal contradicts the findings of the 2022 National Population Census, saying, “I hold that the House of Representatives is constitutionally in error regarding the proposal of 14 new representative seats, especially when the validated 2022 National Population Census report does not support such a move.”
Dillon warned that any attempt to increase the number of representatives without adhering to the census data would violate the Constitution and undermine fair representation.
Both lawmakers have pledged to challenge action if the House Majority led by Richard Koung moves forward with the creation of new seats without following the proper constitutional process. Koffa and Dillon Condemn House Majority’s Push for New Seats, Warn of Constitutional Breach.
Former Speaker Fonati Koffa and Montserrado County Senator Darius Dillon have expressed their opposition to the House Majority’s proposal to create 14 new representative seats, arguing that it violates Liberia’s Constitution.
Koffa emphasized, “The House majority passed a resolution to create new representative seats, assuming powers they do not have. Article 80(e) is the controlling legal authority.” He warned that the proposal would disenfranchise the Southeast region, which is already underrepresented in the legislature. Koffa stated, “The proposed creation of new seats is a complete disenfranchisement of the Southeast region of Liberia.”
Koffa intoned by, stating,”We must all stand together to defend the Constitution of Liberia.” With both Koffa and Dillon standing firm against the proposal, the matter is expected to escalate into a major legal challenge if the House persists with its actions.
