A high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission met with the Majority Bloc Speaker of the Liberian Legislature, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, and members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, March 25, to discuss recent developments at the Capitol Building, particularly regarding the recent impasse resulting to a leadership transition.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Koon and members of the House to present a comprehensive file containing key exhibits related to the procedural steps taken in the removal of embattled Speaker, and Grand Kru County Electoral District 2 Representative Hon. Jonathan Fonati Koffa. The file also detailed the dissolution and reconstitution of House committees, among other legislative actions.
Leading the ECOWAS delegation, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, clarified that the team was not in Liberia as a mediation body, as had been previously reported.
He stated that Liberia’s problems can only be solved by Liberians, emphasizing that external parties cannot impose solutions without the commitment of domestic stakeholders.
The delegation included other notable figures such as Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security; Mr. Ebenezer Asiedu, Head of Democracy and Good Governance at the ECOWAS Commission; and other key officials.
Speaker Koon reaffirmed his leadershipโs commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with all members of the Legislature in the best interest of the Liberian people.
He emphasized that resolving the recent legislative impasse is essential for stability and effective governance. He also expressed appreciation for ECOWASโ role in fostering peaceful and constructive dialogue, underscoring that unity among lawmakers is paramount for smooth legislative proceedings.
