Paynesville – Representative Marvin Cole (CDC, District #3, Bong County) has accused Vice President Jeremiah Koung of attempting to unduly influence the Supreme Court ahead of a crucial ruling on the ongoing leadership crisis in the House of Representatives.
By Yawah, Jaivey, [email protected]
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Rep. Cole called on the Supreme Court to issue a clear and impartial interpretation of its prior ruling, particularly concerning Articles 33 and 49 of the Liberian Constitution. He stated that the legitimacy of legislative actions depends on both the presence of a democratically elected Speaker and a quorum, warning that any actions taken without meeting these conditions should be deemed ultra vires.
“Tomorrow, arguments will be heard from both sides, and it is our hope that the Supreme Court will impartially, unequivocally, and clearly state what they meant when they ruled on ultra vires,” Rep. Cole said. “If a majority bloc acts without a democratically elected Speaker, their actions are invalid. Likewise, if a Speaker acts without a quorum, those actions are also invalid.”
While admitting that reports of VP Koung’s interference remain unconfirmed, Rep. Cole nonetheless urged the Vice President to cease any attempts to influence the court’s decision, alleging that he has been pressuring justices and offering assurances regarding the upcoming retirement of the Chief Justice.
“We believe in the integrity of the Supreme Court justices, and we trust that they will not bend to political pressure,” Cole asserted. “The Vice President should focus on being a fixer for the Boakai administration rather than a spoiler.”
The office of the Vice President is yet to respond to the allegation; however, he has consistently said he is not involved in the impasse at the House of representatives.
Rep. Cole also criticized the Vice President’s recent comments during a visit to the United States, where Koung allegedly suggested that Speaker Fonati Koffa had lost legitimacy. Cole dismissed Koung’s interpretation of quorum requirements as “one of the most laughable statements I’ve ever heard” and accused him of working to circumvent the Constitution.
Additionally, Rep. Cole condemned Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh for “misinterpreting” the Supreme Court’s previous ruling. He argued that the Minister of Justice has no authority to interpret Supreme Court decisions and called for his resignation ahead of the upcoming hearing.
“The decision of the executive branch to rely on the Justice Minister’s interpretation could have plunged this country into a civil crisis,” Cole warned. “Because of our tolerance and the leadership ability of Speaker Koffa, we chose to follow the rule of law instead.”
The lawmaker further alleged that Liberia is turning into a “police state” and claimed that state security forces are being used as tools of intimidation. He urged members of the Supreme Court to remain steadfast and not succumb to political threats or bribery.
“If we, the lawmakers, cannot bow down to these individuals, then I am confident the Supreme Court will not either,” he said. “President Boakai needs fixers in his administration, not spoilers.”
When asked how the Rule of Law Caucus would respond if the Supreme Court ruled contrary to its previous stance, Rep. Cole expressed confidence that the court would remain consistent in its ruling. However, he stated that if the court ruled in favor of the majority bloc, he would accept and recognize Rep. Richard Koon as Speaker.
“The Supreme Court must clarify its opinion to ensure that democracy prevails,” Cole urged. “It must state clearly whether the actions of Rep. Koon and his group were legal or illegal.”
He accused VP Koung of orchestrating “criminality in the legislature” and using security agencies to intimidate lawmakers and citizens. He warned that the Liberian people would resist any unconstitutional maneuvers, emphasizing that the Supreme Court’s ruling would have long-term implications for the country’s democracy.
The integrity of each justice, their families, and their future depends on the decision they make,” Cole stressed. “This is a political crisis that must be resolved expeditiously.
The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments from both factions today, Wednesday, March 26.
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