By Grace Q. Bryant
The embattled House Speaker Fonati Koffa has warned the Executive Branch to avoid entangling itself in what he described as a ‘treasonous conspiracy.’
Koffa who expressed disappointment with the Executive Branch of the government amid the ongoing crisis at the House of Representatives said, “It is now clear that the police have become a party to this crisis. We are the people’s representatives, and we will not be intimidated.”
Speaking to reporters following a clash between police officers and lawmakers at the Capitol Building, Speaker Koffa criticized the heavy police presence on Monday, December 9, alleging that the absentee members or ‘majority’ lawmakers are receiving support from the Executive in what he described as a “treasonous plot.”
He further alleged that the heavy police presence only occurs when the so-called majority lawmakers are present at the Capitol, calling it a violation of democratic principles.
“It is unfortunate and unacceptable for Liberia’s democracy. We call on all parties to step back, obey the rule of law, and respect the Supreme Court’s decisions,” he added.
Speaker Koffa emphasized the need for the rule of law to prevail, urging the Executive to seek clarification from the Supreme Court if necessary.
“There is a conscious effort to ignore the Supreme Court’s ruling. What is most disappointing is seeing police officers brutalizing lawmakers-an indication that the absentee lawmakers are receiving aid and comfort from the Executive Branch. This is very unfortunate and detrimental to our democracy,” he lamented.
The Speaker accused the police of taking sides in the crisis, claiming that lawmakers had been brutalized during the incident.
He revealed that one of his colleagues, Representative Luther Collins, sustained head injuries and is currently undergoing medical treatment.
“Where is the outrage? Around the world, you may see lawmakers clashing in parliament, but do you see police intervening with tear gas and batons? This is Liberia, and this behavior undermines the sanctity of our democracy,” Speaker Koffa questioned.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s decision, Speaker Koffa reiterated that a sitting of the House of Representatives requires a simple majority, as outlined in Articles 33 and 49 of the Constitution.
He criticized those attempting to reinterpret the court’s ruling and called for lawmakers to reconcile and resume their duties pointing out, “The Supreme Court made clear what constitutes plenary and what has legal effect. We encourage all members to come together and resolve this crisis.”
Speaker Koffa also disclosed that he had received threats to his life, which are currently under investigation by national security agencies. Despite these challenges, he vowed to continue advocating for the rule of law.
He urged the Executive Branch to refrain from actions that might escalate tensions and to clarify any confusion by consulting the Supreme Court.
Speaker Koffa has called on the international community to take note of the situation and urged Liberians to demand accountability and respect for democratic principles.
He called for reconciliation within the legislature. The Speaker then urged lawmakers to return to work and for all parties to abide by the Supreme Court’s decisions to preserve Liberia’s democratic integrity.
“We must step back, obey the rule of law, and respect the Supreme Court, which serves as a neutral arbiter,” Koffa concluded.
However, the Unity Party has denied allegations linking the party to a death threat reportedly made against Speaker Koffa.
In a statement released on December 9, the Unity Party categorically rejected the claims, describing them as baseless and without merit.
“The Unity Party unequivocally condemns any form of threat or violence against any individual, especially a public official,” the Assistant Secretary said
He added, “As a party rooted in the principles of peace and reconciliation, we firmly state that the Unity Party, would never resort to threatening the life of any Liberian.”
The party emphasized its commitment to peaceful governance and democratic principles, urging the public and the international community to dismiss any suggestions to the contrary as efforts to tarnish its reputation.
Highlighting its dedication to unity and collaboration, the Unity Party referenced a significant event earlier this year. On October 18, President Boakai met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, accompanied by a delegation that included Speaker Koffa.
The party described the meeting as evidence of its commitment to bridging political divides.
The Unity Party also called on Liberians to reject divisive narratives and to focus on building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
