By Precious D. Freeman
The Civil Law Court has dismissed embattled House Speaker Fonati Koffa’s petition for declaratory judgment for what the court termed as lack of jurisdiction.
The decision, however, sparked controversy amid reports of death threats against Judge George Smith of the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court.
Judge Smith recently revealed during a hearing that he had received threats from unknown individuals warning of plans to burn down his house and harm him if he proceeded with the case.
“These threats undermine the constitutional and statutory responsibilities of this court,” Judge Smith declared. “Prestige, honor, and dignity attached to judgeship also come with burdens, and we must not allow intimidation to hinder justice.”
The threats reportedly stem from tensions surrounding the Capitol saga, a legal battle involving rival factions in the legislature.
Judge Smith previous summon of Richard N. Koon seemed to further escalate the situation.
Cllr. Koffa’s legal team responded by filing a Bill of Information urging the court to investigate the threats.
They alleged that public declarations, including radio broadcasts, were made by individuals threatening to impeach the judge if he continued handling the case.
“Your Honor may take evidence to allow petitioners/respondents to produce evidence of these threats for the safety and integrity of this court,” Koffa’s lawyers argued, emphasizing the judiciary’s independence under the Liberian Constitution.
Meanwhile, lawyers for the majority Speaker Koon denied any involvement in or knowledge of the threats.
They dismissed the claims as unfounded and argued that the case should proceed without interference.
“The judge is constitutionally protected, and baseless allegations should not interfere with the administration of justice,” they stated.
The court’s dismissal of Speaker Koffa’s petition has fueled speculation that the threats against Judge Smith may have influenced the ruling.
Legal experts and observers warned that this case as an invitation for serious concerns about judicial independence and the rule of law in Liberia.
The decision adds yet another layer of complexity to the Capitol saga, a case already drawing significant public and political attention.
The Judiciary’s handling of such high-stakes cases is likely to remain under intense scrutiny.
The court has not yet announced its next steps, leaving the nation watching closely as the saga unfolds.
