In recent months, Liberia has witnessed significant political turbulence centered around the attempted removal of House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa. This situation has not only disrupted legislative proceedings but has also led to public unrest and raised questions about the nation’s commitment to democratic principles.

Background on Speaker Koffa’s Removal

On October 18, 2024, approximately 47 members of the House of Representatives signed a resolution calling for Speaker Koffa’s removal. They accused him of violating House rules, citing alleged conflicts of interest and unilateral decisions made on behalf of the House. However, these lawmakers have yet to provide concrete evidence to substantiate their claims. Speaker Koffa has remained steadfast, refusing to resign unless the constitutionally required two-thirds majority—49 members—votes for his removal.

Escalation and Public Unrest

The standoff escalated dramatically on December 18, 2024, when the Capitol Building in Monrovia caught fire amid ongoing anti-government protests. These demonstrations were sparked by the plans to remove Speaker Koffa, with protesters also calling for President Joseph Boakai’s resignation. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire, but police have not ruled out arson. Notably, Speaker Koffa and Representative Frank Foko were among those questioned in connection with the incident.

Legal Strategies: Cllr. Sherman vs. Cllr. Gongloe

The legal battle over Speaker Koffa’s position has brought two prominent Liberian lawyers into the spotlight: Cllr. Varney Sherman and Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe.

Cllr. Varney Sherman: Representing the majority bloc seeking Speaker Koffa’s removal, Cllr. Sherman argues that Koffa’s actions have violated constitutional mandates and eroded legislative integrity. However, Sherman’s involvement is controversial due to his past, including sanctions by the U.S. Treasury Department over alleged bribery, casting doubt on his credibility in this legal battle.

Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe: An advocate for the rule of law and anti-corruption, Cllr. Gongloe emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional procedures. He has been vocal about strengthening the rule of law in Liberia, viewing the 2023 elections as an opportunity to combat corruption and promote transparency.

Constitutional Provisions and Current Status

According to Article 49 of the Liberian Constitution, the Speaker can be removed from office for cause by a resolution of two-thirds of the members of the House. As of now, the anti-Speaker bloc has not achieved this threshold, leading to a legislative impasse. The situation has further deteriorated into physical confrontations, with reports of pro-Koffa lawmakers being injured during disputes over the national budget.

Conclusion

The ongoing controversy over Speaker Koffa’s removal underscores deep-seated political divisions within Liberia’s government. The involvement of high-profile legal figures like Cllr. Sherman and Cllr. Gongloe highlights the complex interplay between law and politics in the country. As Liberia navigates this crisis, the adherence to constitutional processes and the commitment to democratic principles remain crucial for maintaining stability and public trust in its institutions.