-In House Impasse
By: G. Bennie Bravo Johnson, I.
The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), a statutory and competent body committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of Liberia’s judicial system, has called for calm and restraint as the nation awaits a ruling from the Honorable Supreme Court in the case involving Hon. Fonati Koffa versus Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon and members of the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives.
Speaking through its National President, Cllr. Bondo Varmah, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, the LNBA acknowledged the growing public interest surrounding the pending Supreme Court decision. The Association emphasized that the judiciary must be given the space to render its judgment free from pressure, intimidation, or undue influence from any source.
It can be recalled that on March 26, 2025, the Supreme Court of Liberia heard arguments in a Bill of Information filed by embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and the Minority Bloc. The Bill was filed in response to alleged violations of the Court’s December 6, 2024 ruling by the Majority Bloc, led by Speaker Richard Koon, who was endorsed by the Executive.
In that earlier ruling, the Supreme Court had determined that any legislative sessions or actions not in accordance with Articles 33 and 49 of the Constitution were ultra vires. Despite this, Speaker Koffa alleged that the Majority Bloc continued to hold unauthorized legislative sessions—including budget hearings—in defiance of the Court’s judgment. He further accused Justice Minister and Attorney General, Cllr. Oswald Tweh, of deepening the crisis by issuing a legal opinion that misrepresented the Court’s ruling, thereby emboldening the Majority Bloc.
Public anxiety has since heightened, with many awaiting the Supreme Court’s final decision on the matter.
Addressing journalists at the LNBA Headquarters on Ashmun Street, Cllr. Varmah urged all parties—the Majority and Minority Blocs of the House of Representatives—and their supporters to act with maturity and restraint, in line with democratic values and the rule of law.
“The LNBA categorically condemns all threats, counter-threats, and inflammatory statements from any side,” Cllr. Varmah stated. “Such actions serve only to undermine public confidence in the judicial process and our democracy.”
The Bar further cautioned all citizens and political actors that Liberia’s peace, democracy, and institutional stability depend on respect for the law and legal institutions.
“We therefore urge everyone to be law-abiding and conduct themselves responsibly, both now and after the Court renders its decision. The LNBA unequivocally condemns any form or plan of violence before or after the issuance of the Supreme Court’s opinion. While every citizen has the right to disagree with a judicial decision, such disagreement must be expressed through lawful, peaceful, and constructive means.”
Cllr. Varmah stressed that the integrity and independence of the Judiciary are essential pillars of Liberia’s democracy. While it is acceptable to critique or analyze court decisions, he emphasized, that all citizens have a national duty to respect and abide by the Court’s rulings.
The LNBA also addressed growing public discourse and speculation about alleged interference by the Executive Branch in the judicial process, particularly with regard to the pending ruling.
“The Constitution guarantees the separation of powers among the three branches of government,” Varmah said, “with the Judiciary as an independent and co-equal branch. The Supreme Court, as the highest arbiter of justice, must be allowed to perform its constitutional duties without fear, favor, or undue influence.”
While recognizing the right of citizens to express their views on national matters, the Bar warned against premature conclusions or unsubstantiated allegations that could erode public trust in the Judiciary.
“If there is credible evidence of interference or unconstitutional conduct, the LNBA will not hesitate to speak out forcefully in defense of Liberia’s democratic institutions,” Cllr. Varmah assured. “The Bar is closely monitoring developments surrounding this matter and remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done.”
In conclusion, the LNBA called on all stakeholders—including political actors, the public, and media institutions—to refrain from statements that could prejudice the ongoing judicial process or tarnish the image of the Supreme Court.
President Varmah reaffirmed the Bar’s commitment to serving as a watchdog of the legal system and a guardian of constitutional governance, declaring its unwavering dedication to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the preservation of peace and stability in Liberia.
