The floor of the House of Representatives was again charged on Wednesday — for the second consecutive day — as Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon reignited tensions from Tuesday’s heated opening of the third quarter session of the 54th Legislature.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
In what was meant to be a brief “housekeeping” address before the day’s plenary, Speaker Koon reminded lawmakers of their privilege to express themselves freely and honestly during sessions, but cautioned against making baseless allegations that could bring the body into disrepute.
In a firm but measured tone, the Speaker urged members to “govern themselves accordingly” and uphold the integrity and dignity of the “Honorable House.”
“Honorable members must make use of the privilege accorded them in plenary to freely express themselves in an honest manner. I will not hesitate to use the authority given me by you through the rules to maintain sanity and integrity in this Honorable House. Let us act and govern ourselves accordingly,” Speaker Koon told members.
Citing Rule 42 of the House’s Rules and Procedures — which speaks to maintaining the “prestige and dignity of the House” — Speaker Koon emphasized that members must refrain from any undesirable acts that could disrupt proceedings.
Rule 42.1 states that “every member shall, at any place, keep the prestige and dignity of the House and refrain from undesirable acts,” while Rule 42.2 adds that “no member shall insult, abuse, or harass other persons within the confines of the House, or cause disturbance to the activities of the House.”
However, the Speaker’s remarks appeared to rekindle frustration among some lawmakers, who accused him of overstepping his authority.
Grand Gedeh County District #3 Representative Jacob Debee cautioned Speaker Koon against using his power for personal or political advantage.
“You must use your power for the benefit and protection of members here — not for personal gain or biased actions,” Rep. Debee said. “The rules say our power must be used for the protection of the public interest, not to intimidate colleagues.”
Rep. Debee cited Rule 41 of the House Rules, which mandates that lawmakers exercise their duties “for the protection of the interest of the public and citizens in a just manner,” and not for personal advantage or acts of partiality.
Meanwhile, Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah once again became a flashpoint in Wednesday’s proceedings — this time over his attire.
Kolubah was ordered to remove a face cap he wore during the session or leave the chamber. The outspoken lawmaker initially refused, arguing that other members were also wearing hats.
Speaker Koon, however, clarified that only traditional or “country hats,” considered more formal, are allowed under House decorum — referencing District #17 Representative Bernard Blue Benson (DJ Blue), who was wearing such a hat.
After several minutes of back-and-forth and appeals from colleagues, Rep. Kolubah eventually complied and removed the cap, allowing the session to continue.
Wednesday’s confrontation underscores the growing friction in the House under Speaker Koon’s leadership, as tensions persist over the interpretation and enforcement of internal rules and procedures.
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