MONROVIA – A standoff is emerging between the Executive Protection Service (EPS) and opposition figures, spotlighting deepening tensions within the country’s political and security landscape. 

By Jaheim T. Tumu, jaheimt.tumu@frontpageafricaonline.com

The controversy follows a warning from the EPS Wednesday that it will withdraw protection from any VIP who incites rebellion or violence — a statement widely interpreted as a response to former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor’s recent warnings of “chaos.”

While the EPS did not explicitly name Taylor, its strongly worded statement came just days after she accused President Joseph Boakai of undermining the Supreme Court and suggested that Liberia is on the brink of instability if the rule of law is not upheld.

“President Boakai, you must follow the mandate from the Supreme Court,” Taylor said. “We either do chaos or we do calm where our country can move forward. This is the choice we have today.”

Taylor’s comments followed a Supreme Court ruling in the ongoing power struggle at the House of Representatives, where embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa faces an attempted ouster by a self-proclaimed “Majority Bloc” led by Representative Richard Nagbe Koon. 

Taylor criticized the President’s alleged failure to enforce the Court’s decision, framing it as a constitutional crisis with far-reaching consequences.

Her remarks were bold — and provocative — but not without precedence. During the 2023 presidential campaign, then-candidate Boakai himself warned: “If you think you will steal this election, we will not allow it because if you do it, that’s the end of this country.”

Critics argue both statements reflect the political tradition of brinkmanship in Liberia, where leaders often use dramatic language to appeal to their bases. However, the EPS now appears ready to redefine the boundaries of such speech when it involves individuals under its protection.

“A protectee who actively engages in or incites violence or rebellion against the Government forfeits the privilege of EPS protection,” said EPS Director Sam Gaye. He added that such conduct “directly contradicts the EPS’ constitutional and operational responsibilities.”

Gaye emphasized that the EPS remains committed to “professional, impartial, and robust protection,” but made clear that protection will not be extended to those viewed as threatening Liberia’s peace and security. 

EPS Response Sparks Backlash 

The opposition has responded with forceful pushback. Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) Secretary General Jefferson Koijee labeled the EPS statement “a shameful, hollow, and legally baseless attempt to intimidate critics of the ruling regime.”

“Sam Gaye is a classical joker, a morally bankrupt puppet, and a spineless bureaucrat willing to gamble national integrity at the altar of tyrannical loyalty,” Koijee wrote in a fiery post on social media.

Koijee accused the EPS of abandoning its neutral constitutional mandate and acting as “a private militia for the blood-stained Unity Party regime.” He warned that the CDC will not be cowed, declaring, “This land is ours, and no recycled dictatorship will outlast the people’s resolve.”

Adding to the criticism, Margibi County Senator Nathaniel McGill, himself a former minister under the CDC-led administration, cautioned, “There are officials around the President who are giving him bad advice. But if anything goes wrong, the President himself will be held accountable. Liberia is a democracy, and the rule of law must not be compromised.” 

Gov’t Officials Defend EPS

Government officials have rushed to defend the EPS and condemn the opposition’s rhetoric. Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah described figures like Taylor as “agents of violence” unable to thrive in a peaceful environment.

In a statement laced with mockery, Piah said, “When I watch the video, I personally had empathy. Because I cannot thrive in the midst of chaos if I’m walking with a stick. It means I cannot walk well. It means I can’t run, and when chaos is unleashed I could be victim number one.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Selena Mappy, appeared to support the EPS’s stance, reacting to a Facebook post by stating, “Damn right, you talk nonsense with your mouth because you got security protection.”

Free Speech or Security Threat?

The debate now centers on whether the EPS’s policy crosses into censorship or is a necessary step to safeguard national stability. Critics argue that the statements by both Boakai and Taylor fall within the bounds of free speech and political expression. 

Others contend that in a post-war society like Liberia, political leaders must exercise greater caution given the fragility of peace.

Public reactions remain divided. “Is this government really practicing democracy?” asked citizen Lusine Dukuly. “What is the fear when you are doing well and your citizens are pleased with you? Protest has nothing to do with citizens’ happiness.”

The EPS’s stance — and the government’s response — has opened a broader conversation about how Liberia balances national security with democratic freedoms. As political tensions simmer, the coming weeks may prove pivotal in defining the line between dissent and destabilization.

Monrovia – Efforts by the Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives to remove Speaker J. Fonati Koffa appear to be faltering as questions mount over the bloc’s actual numerical strength and internal coherence.

By Selma Lomax selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com

During a press conference aired live on various online platforms, the Majority Bloc faced visible challenges in presenting a unified and credible front. A physical headcount at the event showed only 31 lawmakers present. However, bloc members insisted there were 37, creating immediate confusion about the actual number.

Further discrepancies emerged during the roll call of absent lawmakers. The Clerk of the House appeared uncertain, reporting various figures ranging from 10 to 14 absentees at different moments. Despite these inconsistencies, the bloc later claimed to have the support of 49 lawmakers.

Observers quickly questioned the math: if 37 lawmakers were present and 14 absent, the total would amount to 51 – not 49. Critics argue that even with the recent addition of newly elected lawmakers, Reps. Thomas Romeo Quioh and Emmanuel Dahn, the numbers don’t add up. Including these two, the bloc’s confirmed strength rises only to 45, assuming their original count of 43 was accurate.

Compounding the uncertainty, two members – Rep. DJ Blue and Rep. Austin B. Taylor – reportedly left the Majority Bloc, effectively canceling out the impact of recent defections from the Minority side. Further scrutiny arose from the inclusion of Reps. Taa Wongbe and Moima Briggs Mensah in the bloc’s count, despite both lawmakers having openly distanced themselves from Majority Bloc activities.

“Why are they faking their numbers?” one political observer noted. “They even faked the resolution signature again.”

The controversy highlights the ongoing leadership crisis in the House and raises doubts about whether the Majority Bloc has the constitutional two-thirds majority required to unseat Speaker Koffa. As the political standoff continues, pressure is mounting for transparency and a resolution grounded in legality and consensus.

Monrovia – A standoff occurred at the Capitol Building on Monday, March 24, when members of the Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives snubbed an ECOWAS Mediation Team delegation over a recognition dispute regarding Majority Bloc Speaker, Richard Koon.

By Selma Lomax selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com

The ECOWAS delegation, which arrived in Liberia on Sunday, was in the country to continue mediation efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing leadership dispute within the House. 

This marks the second attempt by ECOWAS to intervene in the political crisis, following an unsuccessful mediation in 2024.

The delegation includes prominent figures such as Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs; Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security; and other key officials such as Mr. Ebenezer Asiedu, Head of Democracy and Good Governance at the ECOWAS Commission, among others.

The tensions came to a head when the delegation arrived at the Capitol Building and addressed Rep. Richard Koon as “Honorable Koon,” rather than “Speaker Koon,” a title that the Majority Bloc insists is crucial for proper protocol. 

This oversight was seen by the Majority Bloc as a direct affront to Koon’s office, leading them to demand that the mediation meeting be postponed until proper protocols were observed, including advance notification to Koon’s office.

“We cannot accept this,” said one member of the Majority Bloc. “No prior notification was made to the Speaker’s office. It’s a disregard for the authority of the House, and we refuse to meet under these conditions. We insist the meeting be postponed until proper procedures are followed, including notifying Koon’s office in advance.”

The situation also brings to the fore the recent rejection by ECOWAS Parliament of Liberia’s request to replace two members of the House. 

ECOWAS maintained that the replacements were not warranted, as the members were still within their mandate and had not breached any necessary conditions.

“The Honorable Members Samuel R. Enders, Sr., Moima Briggs-Mensah, and Taa Z. Wongbe do not fall under any of the aforementioned circumstances, therefore, their replacement cannot be affected; consequently, the Honorable Members of the ECOWAS Parliament will continue to serve their mandate until its expiration, in line with the international commitments of the Republic of Liberia,” ECOWAS Parliament declared in response to the request.

FrontPageAfrica had earlier reported that the Majority Bloc intended to snub the ECOWAS delegation, with one member of the bloc saying, “We are not going to listen to them. In fact, we have begun making friends in the region. We have been traveling in recent days to make new friends. So, we are not children for ECOWAS parliament to decide for us.”

The delegation’s visit comes ahead of crucial hearings by the Supreme Court of Liberia, scheduled for March 26, regarding a Bill of Information filed by embattled Speaker Koffa. 

In light of the tensions, the House’s Communication Department later issued a statement responding to rumors circulating that the Majority Bloc had snubbed the ECOWAS delegation. The communication clarified that while the Majority Bloc expressed their displeasure, the issue was under internal review, and no formal decision had been made regarding the delegation’s visit.

The communication added, “There are ongoing discussions among our members, and we are committed to ensuring that all protocols and proper procedures are followed in any engagement with ECOWAS or any external delegation.”

Meanwhile, Speaker Koffa, alongside the Rule of Law Caucus, met with the ECOWAS delegation later on Monday evening in a bid to find common ground. The meeting, which took place behind closed doors, aimed to address the concerns raised by the Majority Bloc and to explore potential solutions to the House’s internal issues.

Following the meeting, Speaker Koffa expressed optimism about the mediation efforts, stressing that ECOWAS’ involvement underscores the importance of regional stability and the need for external support to help Liberia navigate its political struggles. 

He also emphasized that the intervention is critical in restoring unity and reinforcing Liberia’s democratic institutions.

“We welcome the involvement of ECOWAS in resolving the internal conflict,” Koffa said. “The current situation within the House has raised concerns about governance and the rule of law. ECOWAS’ support will help guide us toward a constructive solution that will ensure stability and unity in Liberia.”

With the Majority Bloc planning to reject external interference in the Legislature’s affairs, political observers believe the road to political reconciliation within the House of Representatives remains uncertain.

Capitol Hill, Monrovia – The legitimacy of the Majority Bloc-led House of Representatives is under intense scrutiny following the recent election of a new batch of delegates to the ECOWAS Parliament. The newly elected delegates include Reps. Augustine B. Chiewolo (District #5, Lofa County), Samson Q. Wiah (District #2, Sinoe County), and Rep. Moima Briggs-Mensah (District #5, Bong), who is currently serving as part of the ECOWAS delegation appointed by the embattled Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa. Among those originally appointed by Koffa was Rep. Taa Wongbe (District #9, Nimba), Samuel Enders (District #6, Montserrdo County).

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

This fresh electoral exercise is part of the Majority Bloc’s broader effort to overturn all appointments made by Speaker Koffa. The bloc accused the Speaker of bypassing the House rule that mandates election over appointment—a process they contend was marred by political maneuvering and a lack of transparency.

According to Majority Bloc representatives, the elections held during the 11th Day Sitting of the 1st Quarter of the 2nd Session adhered strictly to ECOWAS requirements for political balance and gender representation. The move was triggered on February 13 by a joint communication from Reps. James Kolleh (District #2, Bong County) and Johnson Williams (District #3, River Gee County), calling for the immediate withdrawal of Liberia’s current representatives to pave the way for the new elections. Notably, while the previous delegation included a female member, the only woman in the new delegation is Rep. Mensah—the very lawmaker who already served in the earlier ECOWAS team.

Controversy Over the Replacement Process

Even before Tuesday’s election, several current and past lawmakers expressed resistance to the replacement process, arguing that the existing representatives are protected under ECOWAS Rule 5. This rule stipulates that a Representative’s four-year mandate begins and ends as specified in Article 18(2)(a) of the Supplementary Act, and that once sworn in, a Representative cannot be replaced or dismissed as long as they remain a member of their National Parliament.

“It is not possible to replace your representatives once they have taken their oath. Except they are no longer member of the body that sent them,” said a lawmaker citing not to be named.

In a letter dated February 7, 2024, a copy of which is held by FPA, Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa submitted the names of five legislators—including Reps. Taa Wongbe, Moima Briggs-Mensah and Samuel Enders, as well as Senators Edwin Melvin Snowe and J. Alex Tyler—as Liberia’s representatives to the ECOWAS Parliament. This letter cited Article 28.C of the ECOWAS Supplementary Act, which mandates that member states submit their representatives.

The ECOWAS rules are designed to protect the regional parliamentary body’s independence from undue political pressure and intimidation. Representatives must take an affirmation oath during the inaugural session, declaring that they will serve the community’s interests without succumbing to pressure from any member state or group. These rules also clearly define the terms of office and the conditions under which a Representative’s seat becomes vacant—such as death, written resignation, incapacity, incompatibility, or removal due to disrepute or gross misconduct.

Engaging in Double standard?

Critics now accuse the Majority Bloc of engaging in a double standard by attempting to replace active representatives, thereby potentially violating ECOWAS procedures. It is worth recalling that the ECOWAS Parliament previously intervened in Liberia’s internal House leadership impasse at the request of Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of ECOWAS.

 While the minority bloc accepted ECOWAS’ recommendations, the Majority Bloc rejected them. Instead, they convened a separate session under Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah’s gavel, launched and later elected Rep. Richard Koon (UP, District 11, Montserrado County) as their new speaker. In a series of dramatic moves, they also reconfigured House committees, authorized the Central Bank and commercial banks to change signatories on House accounts, and intercepted the draft national budget forwarded by the President. They also suspended several of their colleagues loyal to Koffa.

As the public in Liberia and the subregion eagerly awaits the ECOWAS Parliament’s decision on whether to accept the new delegates, this controversy represents a major legitimacy test for the Majority Bloc-led House of Representatives under the gavel of Rep. Richard Koon.

Monrovia – In response to persistent mobile network issues in Liberia, Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Koon has appointed an ad-hoc committee to investigate the role of telecommunications regulators and service providers. The committee, led by Margibi County District #2 Representative Ivar Jones, will examine the technical challenges behind the widespread network problems, particularly in the southeastern region of the country.

By Francis G. Boayue, francis.boayue@frontpageafricaonlie.com

The committee, which includes five other lawmakers, is tasked with working alongside GSM companies for the next two weeks to assess the status of network improvements in Maryland and other southeastern counties. The findings will be presented to the plenary for further action.

The investigation follows a session on Tuesday, where Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) Commissioner Clarence Massaquoi, Minister of Post and Telecommunications Sekou Kromah, and executives from Lonestar MTN, Orange Liberia, and LIBTELCO were summoned before the Majority Bloc. The meeting was convened to discuss solutions to the ongoing network disruptions that have plagued parts of the country.

The decision to call the telecommunications companies to account came after two separate communications from Maryland County District #2 Representative Anthony F. Williams and District #3 Representative Austin B. Taylor. During the fourth-day sitting of the first quarter of the second legislative session, the two lawmakers raised concerns about the severe network problems in the southeastern region, which they said have negatively impacted the daily lives of citizens.

Both Representatives Williams and Taylor detailed how poor network coverage has hindered economic activities, disrupted business operations, and caused significant hardship for residents. The lack of reliable communication services has particularly affected traders and entrepreneurs who depend on mobile networks for transactions and coordination, including mobile money services.

The lawmakers have expressed serious concern over the ongoing issue, especially in Liberia’s leeward counties, and are seeking a detailed explanation of the technical factors behind the network failures, as well as the measures being taken to address the problem.

With the growing frustration over poor telecommunications infrastructure, the ad-hoc committee’s work is seen as a critical step toward ensuring accountability and improving network services for Liberians across the country.

MONROVIA – The absence of justices from Liberia’s Supreme Court at President Joseph Boakai’s second State of the Nation Address on Monday became a focal point of national discussion, diverting attention away from the substance of the President’s speech.

Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com, Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

While Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution mandates that the President report annually to the legislature on the state of the nation, it does not require the judiciary to be represented. Nonetheless, it has been a longstanding tradition for the justices of the Supreme Court to attend this critical event.

Leading up to the address, speculation mounted regarding the possible absence of the justices. Charles Yates, a prominent Liberian journalist, predicted on social media that Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh would miss the address.

The Supreme Court later confirmed this, stating that Chief Justice Yuoh was attending the Annual High-Level Meeting of Chief Justices and Presidents of Supreme and Constitutional Courts from Africa and the Middle East in Cairo, Egypt, an event focused on strengthening judicial cooperation between African and Middle Eastern nations.

Despite this official explanation, Darryl Ambrose Nmah Sr., Director of Communications at the Supreme Court, did not clarify whether the other justices would attend. Efforts by FrontPageAfrica to seek further clarification from Nmah were unsuccessful, as calls went unanswered.

‘High Court’s decision validates Minority Bloc’s claim’

The absence of the justices has ignited widespread speculation in political circles, with some suggesting it may be a strategic move to distance the judiciary from the leadership of Richard Koon, the Executive-backed Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

One of them with such a view is renowned human rights and constitutional lawyer Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe. Speaking to FrontPage Africa, Cllr. Gongloe said the absence of the justices of the Supreme Court proves the proceedings of the Majority Bloc was unconstitutional, adding if he had been invited, he would have turned down the invitation.

“If I had been invited, I would have not gone because I choose to subscribe to the fact that the majority Bloc has no legitimacy. I would not have gone there. I would have been inconsistent. I still believe that they are lawbreakers; I maintain that,” Cllr. Gongloe said.

Koon’s election has been controversial due to the way it was conducted, especially the Majority Bloc’s failure to secure the necessary votes to oust embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa. Koffa challenged the process in the Supreme Court, which issued a controversial ruling that led both parties to claim victory.

Gongloe, a presidential candidate during the 2023 presidential elections, supported President Boakai in the runoff over incumbent President George Weah. However, he has often expressed his criticism against the Boakai-Koung administration. He criticized the government for endorsing the Majority Bloc despite the Supreme Court calling its decision ultra vires.

“We have to have a country of law. More than 300,000 people died in this country because of lack of respect for the rule of law which is the element of bad governance.  I cannot subscribe to illegality. So, that whole thing that happened today is ultra vires or unconstitutional because the speaker that presided has no legitimacy. But the absence of the entire judiciary shows consistency that when an action is unconstitutional they don’t appear. As they didn’t appear in Virginia, in Snowe’s case… It was an illegitimate forum. And that the President recognizing it contravenes his commitment to rule of law.”

This year’s State of the Nation Address mirrored former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s 2007 Annual Message, which took place during a similar period of infighting within the House of Representatives. Eighteen years ago, the Lower House was embroiled in a crisis when Hon. Edwin Melvin Snowe, Liberia’s first postwar Speaker, was unlawfully removed by a group of lawmakers identifying themselves as the “Majority Bloc.” This group abandoned regular sessions and convened at the Unity Conference Center in Virginia Township, where they began holding their own sessions.

In response, Rep. Snowe and his allies sought redress at the Supreme Court. Under the leadership of the late Chief Justice Johnny Lewis, the Court ruled the Majority Bloc’s actions illegal. However, in what appeared to be a rebuff of the Court’s decision, President Sirleaf delivered her State of the Nation speech before the fractured Legislature at the Unity Conference Center. Speaker Snowe, his supporters, and several senators boycotted the speech, and the Supreme Court justices were notably absent.

Prior to President Boakai’s Annual Message members of the Majority Bloc, reflecting on this historical precedent, called on the Supreme Court Justices to boycott. One of them, Rep. Marvin Cole said that while he cannot dictate the Supreme Court’s actions, he expects the justices to follow the “noble example” set by their predecessors 18 years ago by upholding the rule of law over what he termed an “illegal precedent.”

Cllr. Gongloe said the Supreme Court followed its predecessors’ footsteps. “In the Edwin Snowe case, they (Justices of the Supreme Court) were absent. That in my view is consistent with the views that some of us have expressed that everything is happening ultra vires. The sitting of the House of Representatives is ultra vires; that’s how it appears to me because it was said unless the speaker is absent for sickness or for some reasons, then the deputy speaker will preside. It just means that the interpretation that was given by some of us that the so-called Majority bloc was in error is correct.”

The debate also drew significant attention on Spoon Talk, with panelists sharing their perspectives on the President’s State of the Nation Address.

“The biggest takeaway for me today was the absence of the Supreme Court. I think that sends a strong message to the Boakai administration and members of the Legislature that the Supreme Court will not tolerate the gross disrespect of its authority,” said panelist Garmondeh Clinton, Esq.

He further stated, “The gross disrespect for our constitution is evident. I believe the President and his team were both disrespectful and disingenuous to the Liberian people today, given the numerous misrepresentations in the President’s speech.”

Lead presenter and CEO of the Spoon Network, Stanton Witherspoon, described the President’s annual message as disappointing.

“I think the President’s State of the Nation Address was a disappointment. It seems people in the country have agreed to lie to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. Maybe he’s not fully in charge,” Witherspoon said.

He continued, “It is disappointing, painful, and hurtful to hear the President talk about creating a cyber youth team. How long will it take for people to receive this cyber training? That’s not something achieved in a 10-day or 10-week program. It’s truly disappointing.”

Boakai Addresses Liberia’s Economic Struggles Amid Challenges

In his address, President Boakai provided an update on his administration’s efforts to tackle Liberia’s deep-seated economic challenges, acknowledging the significant obstacles that remain. 

He reflected on the achievements of his administration, highlighting progress in key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, health, and education, but cautioned that more difficult decisions lie ahead.

“We assumed leadership with a clear agenda, fully aware that the journey ahead would not be easy,” Boakai told lawmakers and the public. He outlined the first 100 days of his presidency as a period of action aimed at providing relief to the Liberian people despite limited resources. 

The President pointed to improved public sector accountability and significant legislative progress, even in the face of tough economic conditions upon taking office.

When Boakai assumed the presidency, Liberia was grappling with a sharp economic downturn, rising unemployment, inflation, and growing inequality. Economic growth had slowed to 4.6%, inflation had surged to 10.1%, and the country’s external reserves were dangerously low. 

Boakai emphasized that his administration had taken decisive action to address these issues, including salary increases for health workers, teachers, and police officers, as well as measures to stabilize the economy.

“Before our administration, growth had slowed, inflation had surged, and civil servants were experiencing extreme hardships,” Boakai stated. 

He pointed to 2024 as a year of steady recovery, with a revised GDP growth rate of 5.1%, driven by key sectors such as mining, agriculture, fisheries, and services. The President also acknowledged the role of international partners like the World Bank and USAID in supporting Liberia’s infrastructure and energy development projects.

The reduction of inflation from 10.1% in 2023 to 7.7% by the end of 2024 was presented as one of the administration’s key accomplishments, with expectations for further reductions in 2025. Additionally, Boakai noted improvements in Liberia’s international reserves and the appreciation of the Liberian dollar against the US dollar.

“These are signs of a more stable economy,” Boakai declared, highlighting the reduction in the Central Bank’s monetary policy rate from 20% to 17% as a confidence booster for the financial system.

Rule of Caucus’ Response

Responding to the President’s address, the Rule of Law Caucus, through its Chairman, Musa Bility said the president’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, while commendable in its ambitions, falls short in addressing several critical concerns that Liberians continue to face. The Rule of Law Caucus acknowledges the effort to present a comprehensive plan, but the speech raises more questions than it answers.

He said: “The President paints a picture of progress under the ARREST Agenda, but many Liberians still face worsening economic hardship. Rising unemployment, limited access to basic services, and stagnant living standards persist. The claim that Liberia’s economy is “in a better place” does not align with the experiences of everyday citizens struggling to put food on their tables.”

Criticism of Boakai’s Leadership Amid Growing Tensions

In response to Boakai’s address, Jefferson Koijee, Secretary-General of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), praised the Supreme Court’s decision to skip the event, calling it a critical move to prevent potential constitutional chaos. 

Koijee’s statement pointed to concerns over the integrity of the leadership, specifically regarding the actions of the controversial election of Koon. 

“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Supreme Court for taking decisive action to prevent what could have been a dangerous precedent and preserving the stability of our democracy,” Koijee stated, condemning what he termed as Boakai’s misunderstanding of governance.

Koijee criticized Boakai for personalizing government roles, suggesting that the president’s actions had undermined the integrity of governance. 

He also expressed concern over the excessive deployment of police and military personnel at the Capitol Building during the address, interpreting it as a sign of a government losing the confidence of the people.

The CDC leader further lambasted the Boakai administration’s failure to address issues within Liberia’s security forces, particularly citing figures like Johnny Bolar Dean and Sam Ballah, who had been dismissed for misconduct but were reportedly reinstated to positions of authority.

“The police force, rife with individuals of questionable integrity, reflects poorly on Inspector General Gregory Coleman’s leadership,” Koijee argued, accusing Coleman of exacerbating dysfunction within the police force through poor leadership and brutality.

Morlu Criticizes Boakai’s Record on Corruption, Infrastructure, and Healthcare

Mulbah Morlu, Chairman of the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), expressed frustration with Boakai’s record, accusing him of betraying public trust through continued corruption and ineptitude. 

Morlu criticized the president’s claims of progress in combating corruption, arguing that the administration’s actions had done little to address systemic issues.

“President Boakai continues to downplay the severity of corruption, asking the public to recognize supposed ‘progress’ when, in fact, no significant progress has been made,” Morlu said, condemning the government’s failure to prosecute corrupt officials. 

He highlighted the growing gap between the administration’s promises and the reality faced by ordinary Liberians, particularly in sectors like healthcare and road infrastructure.

Morlu also criticized Boakai’s claims regarding road improvements, adding that many areas across Liberia remain plagued by impassable roads, particularly in rural regions. In counties such as Bong, Lofa, and Nimba, vehicles continue to get stuck in mud, and public transportation remains unreliable, Morlu said.

Morlu described Boakai’s “Yellow Machine” initiative as a failure, with inadequate repairs and incomplete projects failing to deliver on promised improvements.

Additionally, Boakai’s claims about healthcare improvements were labeled as misleading by Morlu.  Morlu pointed to the dire conditions at Liberia’s flagship hospital, JFK, where essential medicines are often in short supply, and healthcare workers must use their personal resources to meet basic needs.

“JFK has become a place of despair, where poor people go only to die,” said one critic, highlighting the severe challenges facing Liberia’s healthcare system.

“While the president fabricates stories of growth, ordinary Liberians are battling unprecedented financial hardship,” said Morlu, emphasizing the disconnect between Boakai’s rhetoric and the harsh reality experienced by the majority of the population.

Capitol Hill, Monrovia – The ongoing power struggle on Capitol Hill has sparked widespread public outrage following the Executive Mansion and Liberian Senate’s endorsement of Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh’s opinion that the Supreme Court’s ruling favored the Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

On Tuesday, Cllr. Tweh opined on the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the legislative impasse, asserting that the Court’s ruling validated the actions of the Majority Bloc. According to him, the Court did not declare any of their actions illegal.

The dispute centers on a petition filed by Speaker J. Fonati Koffa requesting the Supreme Court to nullify the Majority Bloc’s sessions, and the suspension of three lawmakers (Reps. Abu Bana Kamara, Edward Flomo, and Marvin Cole), the restructuring of House committees, and the seizure of the draft 2025 national budget.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court stated: “Any sittings or actions by members of the Legislature not in conformity with the intent of Articles 33 and 49 of the Constitution are ultra vires. Hence, Members of the House of Representatives are to conduct themselves accordingly.” This decision sparked mixed reactions, with both factions claiming victory.

Justice Minister’s Interpretation

Following the ruling, President Joseph Boakai sought legal advice from Cllr. Tweh, who concluded that the Majority Bloc met the constitutional requirements for holding legislative sessions.

“My reading of the Court’s Opinion and the analysis made above, dictate what constitutes a valid, legal and constitutional Plenary of the House of Representatives, as quoted in the Court’s opinion, bring me to the conclusion that the majority members of the House of Representatives met the constitutional requirements explicated by the Court to hold Session and take decisions consistent with the laws of the Country and the Rules of the House of Representatives,” Minister Tweh stated.

He continued: “Therefore, I am of the considered opinion and the law supports my opinion, that the budgetary process can be legally carried out by the majority members provided they meet the same standards laid out by the Supreme Court’s opinion, forming an integral part of my opinion, and that any decision therefrom is constitutional, legal and valid.” 

The Justice Minister’s opinion, later endorsed by the Executive Mansion and the Senate, triggered a wave of public criticism.

Backlash Against the Justice Minister

Rep. Frank Saah Foko (CDC, District 9, Montserrado Co.), an ally of Speaker Koffa, filed a complaint with the Supreme Court accusing Cllr. Tweh of contempt. Foko argued that Tweh’s opinion undermined the Court’s authority and contributed to unconstitutional actions by the Senate.

Foko requested the Court to investigate Tweh for gross misconduct and refer him to the Grievance and Ethics Committee of the Supreme Court Bar for further action. He also called on the Court to reaffirm its authority and issue a statement clarifying the binding nature of its rulings.

He said: “As a senior legal professional and chief legal advisor to the President, the Justice Minister’s actions undermine the authority of the Honorable Supreme Court, destabilize constitutional governance, and damage the public’s trust in the judiciary. In light of these grave concerns, I humbly request the following actions: Contempt of Court: That the Honorable Supreme Court investigate the Justice Minister for contempt of court for issuing an opinion that disregards and undermines the binding ruling of the Court.”

Foko’s colleagues, Rep Musa Bility (District 7, Nimba Co.) wrote on his Facebook page: Democracy has fallen.

Diverging Opinions in the Senate

Not all Senators supported the decision to endorse the Majority Bloc. Senator Nathaniel McGill criticized the move, calling it a misinterpretation of the Supreme Court ruling.

“I categorically distance myself from the Senate’s decision to recognize Representative Richard Nagbe Koon as Speaker. The Supreme Court ruling was clear,” McGill stated.

Senators Albert Chie and Amara Konneh also expressed concerns, with Chie describing the decision as erroneous and Konneh criticizing the lack of broad-based consultation.

Legal Experts Weigh In

Renowned constitutional lawyer Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe called Tweh’s opinion a “complete contradiction” of the Supreme Court’s ruling and accused the Justice Minister of endorsing actions tantamount to treason. Gongloe urged the Executive and Senate to reconsider their positions.

Cllr. Syrenius Cephus emphasized that the Supreme Court’s rulings are binding and cannot be superseded by a lawyer’s opinion. He noted that the Court had issued a stay order restoring the status quo ante, which should have invalidated subsequent actions by the Majority Bloc.

International Community Monitoring

The political turmoil at the Liberian Legislature has drawn international attention. Diplomatic sources informed FrontPage Africa that the ongoing clashes between legislative factions and security forces at the Capitol, as well as attempts to unseat Speaker Koffa, are being closely monitored.

Domestically, public criticism of Justice Minister Tweh’s opinion continues to mount, with many Liberians expressing concern over the potential for escalating political and constitutional crises.

MONROVIA – The Supreme Court of Liberia has issued a stay order directing the “Majority Bloc” of the House of Representatives to halt all actions and return to status quo ante while it reviews a petition filed by House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and his allies.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafriconline.com

In a writ issued on Friday, the Court instructed the Minister of Justice and members of the House involved in the dispute to submit their responses by November 26, 2024. The Court also ordered the Majority Bloc, led by Montserrado County Representative Richard Koon, to cease all actions until the matter is adjudicated.

The injunction mandated Brigadier General Amos B. Kesseh Dickson, Sr., Marshal of the Supreme Court, or his deputy, to notify the Minister of Justice and the referenced lawmakers to file their official responses. It said they must “appear and file returns on the side of the law before the Full Bench of the Honorable Supreme Court of the Republic of Liberia, Temple of Justice, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., as to whether or not the Petitioners’ Petition should be granted.”

The order further instructed the parties to “Return to status quo ante and stay all further proceedings or actions pending the determination of the matter.”

“You are commanded to read the original writ and leave a copy with them; and to file your official returns on the back of the original copy in the Office of the Clerk of this Honorable Court by November 26, 2024.

Leadership Crisis Escalates

The House of Representatives has been embroiled in a bitter leadership conflict, splitting into two factions. The Majority Bloc, citing allegations of corruption, conflict of interest, and poor leadership, accused Speaker Koffa of ignoring their concerns.

The crisis escalated when the Majority Bloc, comprising a significant number of lawmakers, abandoned the main chamber and began holding sessions in the joint chamber. On November 21, 2024, the group controversially declared the Speaker’s seat vacant and elected Representative Koon as their new Speaker. They also dissolved committees formed under Speaker Koffa and appointed new ones.

Speaker Koffa and members of the Minority Bloc condemned these actions, arguing that no legitimate vacancy existed in the Speaker’s office to justify such moves. The Speaker and his allies subsequently filed a petition to the Supreme Court, asserting that the actions of the Majority Bloc violated the procedural framework of the House.

The court’s intervention marks a critical juncture in the ongoing leadership crisis, with the Supreme Court expected to determine the legality of the Majority Bloc’s actions.

This dispute has further deepened divisions within the House, raising concerns about its ability to function effectively amid the political turmoil.

Capitol Hill, Monrovia – The Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives, during a session in the joint chambers, has restructured the Ways, Means, and Finance Committee under the leadership of Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh @frontpageafricaonline.com

In a motion, members voted to remove Rep. Dixon Wlawlee Seboe (District #16, Montserrado County) as Chairman and Rep. Ellen Attoh Wreh as Co-chairperson due to their frequent absences.

Deputy Speaker Fallah has begun appointing members to the new committee, naming Rep. P. Mike Jurry (District #1, Maryland County) as Chairman, Rep. Dorwohn T. Gleekia (District #6, Nimba County) as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Revenue, and Rep. Michael Thomas as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Expenditure. Fallah announced that additional appointments would follow in the coming days.

The Majority Bloc has also received the draft national budget. After reading the communication accompanying the draft, members voted to authorize the newly reconstituted Ways, Means, and Finance Committee, along with the existing Public Accounts Committee, to collaborate with their Senate counterparts to review the budget and make recommendations to the plenary.

In another move, the bloc voted to remove the signatures of Seboe and Wreh from all House accounts at various banks. Deputy Speaker Fallah directed the clerical staff to notify the Central Bank of Liberia and other commercial banks of this decision.

Additionally, Rep. James Kolleh (District #2, Bong County) was appointed Acting Chairman of the Committee on Rules, Order, and Administration.

Suspension of Three Lawmakers

The Majority Bloc has also suspended three lawmakers for 30 meeting days.

They include Rep. Marvin Cole (CDC, District #3, Bong County), Rep. Edward P. Flomo (CDC, District #13, Montserrado County), Rep. Abu Bana Kamara (CDC, District #15, Montserrado County).
The lawmakers were accused by members of the Majority Bloc of breaching House rules. They were alleged to have obstructed other lawmakers from attending sessions and physically attacked their colleagues.

Initially, six lawmakers were placed under investigation. However, the Majority Bloc voted to extend the investigation of three lawmakers—Rep. Saah Foko (CDC, District #9, Montserrado County), Rep. Alex Noah, and Rep. Zinnah Norman (Gbarpolu County)—until Thursday.

Some lawmakers criticized the process, describing it as selective justice. However, FrontPage Africa gathered that these lawmakers are seeking to align with the Majority Bloc and have requested pardon.

Rep. Zinnah Norman has already defected to the Majority Bloc.

The motion for suspension stipulates that the three lawmakers will be denied all privileges, including salary and benefits, during the suspension period. They have also been barred from entering the Capitol Building premises.

Background and Growing Crisis
The Majority bloc, seeking to remove the Speaker abandoned the session and has since been meeting in the joint chambers. On Monday, President Boakai submitted the budget to their presiding officer Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah through Deputy Chief Clerk Comicks Chea, a move that sparked outrage among House leadership loyal to Speaker Fonati Koffa. Speaker Koffa’s camp expressed disappointment in President Boakai’s actions and threatened legal action.

This latest decision by the Majority Bloc further deepens the crisis within the House of Representatives, as the public eagerly awaits the next steps from Speaker Koffa and the Minority Bloc.

Capitol Hill, Monrovia – Tensions reached a boiling point in Liberia’s legislature Tuesday as three top government officials appeared before the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives to respond to allegations of bribery tied to attempts to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa.

Despite a stern warning from Speaker Koffa last week, cautioning President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s administration against sending representatives before the Majority Bloc, Internal Affairs Minister Francis Sakila Nyumalin, Transport Minister Sirleaf Tyler, and Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) Managing Director Mo Ali faced a barrage of inquiries regarding claims of bribery.

The accused officials had been summoned to answer for allegations that funds from the Ministry of Transport and LWSC were funneled into a scheme designed to buy support for the removal of Speaker Koffa. This investigation, which has drawn the attention of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), has sent shockwaves through the political sphere, with many questioning the integrity of both the executive and legislative branches.

Refuting the Allegations

The session, which unfolded amid growing public pressure for transparency, saw each official vehemently deny any wrongdoing.

Mo Ali, the LWSC Managing Director, addressed the lawmakers with confidence, asserting that the allegations of bribery were baseless. He categorically rejected claims that the Corporation had offered $150,000 in bribes to Members of the House. “We operate with strict financial controls,” Ali stated, emphasizing that no such funds had been misappropriated. He further offered to provide detailed financial records, including bank account histories, to support the corporation’s innocence and called for a swift, transparent investigation by the LACC.

Tyler, Liberia’s Transport Minister, also denied the charges, labeling the accusations as “false and misleading.” According to Tyler, the Ministry adheres to the highest standards of financial management, complying fully with Public Financial Management (PFM) laws. He confirmed that the Ministry’s financial operations are rigorously audited, noting that they maintain three separate accounts and are fully supported by the Ministry of Finance.

Tyler even went as far as offering his communication records to the LACC, urging them to conduct a public investigation into the matter.

“We urge the LACC to review all communication records,” he said, “and we call for full transparency to clear our name.”

In a bold statement, Minister Tyler also announced that the Ministry of Transport plans to decentralize its operations in the coming year, aiming to increase revenue generation across the country. “We have exceeded our revenue targets, and we are focused on the future,” he said.

Chaos Erupts in the Chamber

The legislative proceedings took an unexpected turn when an incident involving pepper spray interrupted the session. Just moments after the officials began their testimonies, the chamber was filled with a pollution of noxious fumes, prompting lawmakers, journalists, and observers to cough uncontrollably. The pepper spray, believed to have been deployed by a group of men wearing red face caps, sent the session into disarray but could not disassemble the session.

The security guards, who had successfully barred the intruders from entering the chamber, quickly sealed the doors to contain the situation. However, the pepper spray continued to infiltrate the room through cracks beneath the door. As lawmakers struggled to breathe and cope with the fumes, the power in the chamber was cut, plunging the room into darkness and silencing the PA system. Despite these disruptions, the session continued as lawmakers remained resolute in their questioning of government officials.

While the identity of the assailants remains unknown, the attack raised serious concerns about the safety and security of legislative proceedings. Pepper spray exposure causes irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, and the impact on the health of those present was immediate. Reports of symptoms such as eye pain, coughing, and throat irritation flooded in, further complicating an already tense situation.

A Call for Accountability

The pepper spray incident has added a new layer of drama to an already volatile political environment. As the LACC’s investigation into the bribery allegations continues, the Majority Bloc remains under intense scrutiny. Both the Speaker’s office and the Executive are demanding a transparent and public investigation to resolve these claims.

As the day’s events unfolded, the message from the accused officials was clear: they stand by their integrity, and they challenge their accusers to produce evidence. However, the chaotic scenes in the chamber and the continuing investigation into the allegations suggest that this political drama is far from over.

In the coming days, all eyes will be on the LACC as they work to uncover the truth behind these explosive claims. Meanwhile, the members of the Majority Bloc remain adamant that their reputations will not be tarnished without due process and proof as they have also started to give Speaker J. Fonati Koffa due process.