Monrovia – Hundreds of citizens from Grand Kru District Two have formally petitioned the National Legislature, demanding adherence to the rule of law, justice, and the restoration of democratic order.
By Willie N. Tokpah, [email protected]
The petition, submitted on Tuesday, expresses concerns over the ongoing political deadlock within Liberia’s National Legislature and calls for actions that align with the country’s Constitution and promote good governance.
The petitioners, emphasized the need for full accountability and transparency in the government, citing persistent corruption and power struggles that have undermined the legislative process.
They accuse the Legislature of violating constitutional directives, contributing to bad governance and illegal practices that threaten Liberia’s democratic framework.
“We are calling on the government and the international community to address the ongoing corruption fueling power struggles and undermining the rule of law,” the petition reads. “Such actions perpetuate injustice, unconstitutional practices, and disregard for the democratic principles Liberia stands for.”
This petition comes ahead of a critical hearing at the Supreme Court of Liberia on Wednesday, March 26.
The case revolves around a Bill of Information filed by Speaker Koffa, accusing the Majority Bloc, led by Speaker Richard Koon and Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, of defying a Supreme Court ruling issued on December 6, 2024. The ruling had directed the resolution of a dispute regarding Koffa’s removal, which the Majority Bloc has failed to comply with, resulting in ongoing political instability.
Speaker Koffa also raised concerns over the role of Liberia’s Justice Minister, Cllr. Oswald Tweh, whose legal opinion on December 10, 2024, he claims misinterpreted the Supreme Court’s ruling, allowing the Majority Bloc to continue their actions under the assumption that they were acting lawfully.
In his petition, Koffa, represented by Cllr. Arthur Johnson, requests that the Supreme Court declare all sessions, hearings, and decisions conducted by the Majority Bloc since the ruling as violations of the Court’s directive. The Supreme Court has ordered the Majority Bloc to respond to Koffa’s request, and a hearing is scheduled for March 26.
The hearing and subsequent ruling could not only determine the future of Speaker Koffa’s leadership but also impact the trajectory of Liberia’s legislative and judicial systems.