Cllr Tiawon Saye Gongloe, a prominent Liberian lawyer and political figure, has issued a passionate statement condemning the recent actions of certain members of the House of Representatives, referring to themselves as the ‘Majority.’
In a statement released on his social media handle addressed to the Liberian people, Gongloe expressed his deep concern over what he perceives as a flagrant disregard for Liberia’s Constitution and the rule of law.
Gongloe took particular issue with the legislative efforts to unseat a sitting Speaker of the House, despite their failure to secure the constitutionally required two-thirds majority of 49 votes in favor of removal.
He criticized the group of 43 lawmakers who proceeded to elect a new Speaker, despite the fact that the current embattled Speaker had defeated him as a candidate in the previous speakership election. This, Gongloe argued, goes against the Supreme Court’s previous ruling, which declared that any actions inconsistent with the Constitution are illegal.
“The actions of the so-called ‘majority bloc’ are patently illegal,” Gongloe declared, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the country’s supreme legal principles. “This disregard for our highest court’s decision is a flagrant violation of the Constitution of Liberia.”
The outspoken critic also took aim at the Executive Branch and the Senate for recognizing the actions of the “majority bloc,” despite the Supreme Court’s clear stance on the matter. Gongloe expressed his dismay that such unconstitutional actions were being allowed to continue, tarnishing Liberia’s image as the oldest democratic republic in Africa.
The lawyer’s open letter further criticized the “majority bloc” for refusing to cooperate with two ECOWAS’ delegations, one of which was led by the respected Professor Ibrahim Gambari, a prominent African diplomat.
Gongloe condemned the legislators’ lack of respect for the delegations, noting that it was particularly distressing given Liberia’s historical role in promoting peace and diplomacy on the continent.
“The conduct of the ‘majority bloc’ is not only an abuse of power; it is a notorious display of ignorance and naïveté,” Gongloe said. “It undermines Liberia’s international reputation, especially as we work toward securing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.”
As the nation awaits the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter, Gongloe called on all Liberians to remain vigilant and committed to upholding the Constitution.
He expressed his continued optimism for the future of the nation, despite the setbacks caused by the current political turmoil.
“No retreat, no surrender!” Gongloe exclaimed, echoing the words of soldiers at the battlefront. “The struggle for a better Liberia must continue until we elect and appoint officials who understand that government is a place to serve, not to steal.”
He concluded his letter with a hopeful message for the country, urging citizens to reject unconstitutional actions and to work towards restoring honor and respect for Liberia’s foundational principles.
“We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the legacy of all those who fought for our democracy to ensure that the Constitution is upheld. A better Liberia is possible,” Gongloe declared.
As the nation awaits the outcome of the Supreme Court’s ruling, the eyes of Liberia and the international community remain fixed on the unfolding political drama, with hopes that the rule of law will ultimately prevail.
