-As it recognizes Koon as Speaker
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – In a bold move that has ignited a constitutional standoff, the House of Representatives has openly rejected a Supreme Court ruling affirming Grand Kru County District #2 Representative J. Fonati Koffa as the legitimate Speaker of the House.
In a strongly worded statement issued Wednesday, the body, under the leadership of Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, Sr., described the Court’s decision as “an atrocious and audacious violation” of the separation of powers doctrine. The House insisted that Speaker Koon remains the duly elected and recognized leader of the Lower House.
“The Leadership of the House of Representatives rejects in the strongest terms the Judgment of the Supreme Court that Former Speaker Koffa continues to be Speaker,” the statement said. It cited a resolution endorsed by 50 lawmakers—exceeding the two-thirds constitutional threshold—supporting Koon’s leadership.
Lawmakers allege Koffa’s removal stemmed from issues including corruption, conflict of interest, and mismanagement. They further emphasized that the removal process adhered to the standards set in the landmark Snowe v. House ruling of 2007, which affirms the House’s authority over its internal affairs.
Plenary, the highest decision-making body of the House, has vowed to continue legislative activities without recognizing Koffa’s authority. “Under no circumstance shall Plenary allow Hon. Koffa to preside,” the statement concluded.
The House says it is currently exploring legal and political options to protect its institutional independence and reinforce its decision.
The unfolding dispute sets the stage for a deepening confrontation between the country’s legislative and judicial branches, with potential implications for national governance and the rule of law.
