Deputy Speaker Fallah Sides With Anti-Koffa Lawmakers
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia, Liberia – Amid ongoing squabble at the House of Representatives to oust House Speake J. Fonati Koffa, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah has revealed his decision to join colleagues who have raised grievances against Speaker Koffa, stating that their concerns represent the majority of lawmakers in the House and cannot be overlooked. “My decision to join the call for resolving this deadlock is not a repudiation of my support for Speaker Koffa or the CDC. Instead, it is a demonstration of my unwavering commitment to our democracy, which must transcend any one individual or faction,” he explained.
Despite navigating a complex political landscape, Fallah assured Liberians and CDC members that he has consulted widely before making his decision. “In my nineteen years with the CDC, I have NEVER betrayed my party, and I do not intend to do so now,” he affirmed.
He clarified that he did not play a part in organizing the lawmakers calling for Speaker Koffa’s removal but felt compelled to listen to their concerns in accordance with the Rules and Procedures of the House and the Liberian Constitution. “It is not a choice against my party or the Speaker, whom I continue to respect and support. I cannot ignore my responsibility to act when the legislative body is at a standstill, and the functioning of the national government is at risk,” he stated.
Fallah urged Speaker Koffa and his colleagues to engage in open dialogue to restore unity within the House. “This is not a time for division or suspicion but a moment for us to reaffirm our shared commitment to the people of Liberia,” he said, calling for collaboration to uphold the principles they are sworn to protect and restore the dignity of the People’s House for the benefit of all Liberians.
Meanwhile, he reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and the trust of the Liberian people amid ongoing efforts to oust Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. His remarks come at a critical time when the House of Representatives faces significant internal challenges that threaten its functionality and the democratic foundation of the country.
“As Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and a proud member of the CDC, I am deeply committed to upholding our party’s principles and the trust of the Liberian people,” Fallah stated. He emphasized his loyalty to the shared values of the party and his steadfast support for Speaker Koffa, who he praised for his long-standing dedication to the nation.
Fallah acknowledged the serious challenges currently facing the House, noting that the inability to convene as a unified body undermines the democratic principles upon which Liberia was founded. “As the elected lawmaker of Electoral District #1 (Foya Statutory District), Lofa County, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the 55th Legislature, I consider it my duty to safeguard that foundation by ensuring a transparent, effective, and wholesome functioning Legislature,” he asserted.
The Deputy Speaker expressed his hope for a resolution that benefits the nation and reaffirmed his dedication to the people of Liberia, the 55th Legislature, and the Republic.
