By Grace Q. Bryant
The House of Representatives on Tuesday, October 15, adjourned its session after only 20 members were present, far below the quorum needed for legislative proceedings.
With 53 lawmakers absent, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, standing in for Speaker Fonati Koffa, expressed frustration and directed the sergeant-at-arms to locate the missing members.
Despite efforts to round up the absent representatives, the 73-member body was unable to meet the quorum requirement for the transaction of official business.
According to Article 33 of the Liberian Constitution, at least 37 members must be present for the House to conduct business. Without this minimum, no legislative decisions can be made, ensuring proper representation in the process.
The poor attendance, which coincided with the opening of the third quarter of the 55th Legislature, raised concerns about lawmakers’ commitment, as the absence of over half the representatives left critical matters unresolved.
Addressing the near-empty chamber, Deputy Speaker Fallah sternly cautioned the lawmakers, stating, “The honeymoon is over.”
He instructed Chief Clerk Mildred Sayon to notify absent members to attend the next session on Thursday, October 17, 2024.
This issue of absenteeism has been a recurring problem, raising questions about the effectiveness of the Legislature.
Fallah’s firm stance is intended to ensure that the House can continue its work and address key national issues, many of which have been delayed due to the lack of quorum.
The quorum’s rule, established to prevent an unrepresentative few from making decisions, remains a cornerstone of Liberia’s democratic process.
With several important bills awaiting action, attention now shifts to whether lawmakers will attend the upcoming session on Thursday.
