Monrovia, Liberia – October 17, 2024: Former President George Manneh Weah has issued a sharp rebuke to the Unity Party-led government under President Joseph Boakai, accusing it of engaging in “criminal efforts” to undermine Liberia’s democratic institutions.
The accusation comes in light of alleged attempts to orchestrate the removal of Speaker J. Fonati Koffa from the House of Representatives.
In a strongly worded statement, Weah, who serves as the political leader of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), claimed that funds misappropriated from national coffers are being used to influence this move.
“It has come to my attention that the Unity Party-led government… is making a concerted and criminal effort to undermine our democratic and constitutional institutions by using ill-gotten funds from the National Coffers to influence the unjust removal of Speaker of the House, Honorable J. Fonati Koffa,” Weah declared.
The former president described the situation as an attack on Liberia’s legislative process, warning that such actions could erode the country’s constitutional governance. “This blatant act of political chicanery not only threatens the integrity of our constitutional legislative process but also sets a dangerous precedent for governance in our beloved nation,” he added.
Weah further urged members of the CDC’s legislative caucus to resist these alleged efforts. “To the members of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) legislative caucus, I warn and urge you to stand firmly against this insidious plot,” he stated, adding, “Participation in this scheme will not only betray the trust of your constituents but will also carry dire significant political consequences for your future within our party and in the eyes of the Liberian people.”
The former president also expressed support for Speaker Koffa, describing him as a dedicated and integral leader. “Speaker Koffa has served with dedication and integrity, and any effort to remove him illegally under the guise of political expediency is a desperate and cowardly tactic that must be condemned by all who value the rule of law,” Weah remarked.
Weah called for unity and vigilance in the face of what he sees as an affront to Liberia’s democratic principles.
“We must remain steadfast in our commitment to democratic principles… and defend the integrity of our democracy,” he asserted.