Rep. Barry & Cooper denied bribery allegations, but public perception persists.
By Jerromie S. Walters
The news that five female lawmakers accepted a bribe of 15,000 USD, alongside 42 of their male counterparts, to orchestrate the removal of the Speaker of the House of Representatives has sparked widespread outrage among the public. This scandal has not only intensified the ongoing discourse about political corruption but has also challenged prevailing gender stereotypes that suggest women are inherently better public servants than men.
Many citizens and political analysts have expressed their dismay, arguing that the involvement of female lawmakers in such a corrupt act undermines the progress made in promoting gender equality in politics. Historically, women in politics have been perceived as more ethical and less prone to corrupt practices, a belief that has often been used to advocate for greater female representation in government. However, this incident has brought to light the uncomfortable reality that corruption is not confined to any one gender.
Public reaction has been particularly strong given the symbolic significance of female politicians in the fight for integrity and transparency in governance. Women’s rights organizations and advocacy groups, which have long campaigned for increased female participation in politics, now find themselves in the difficult position of addressing the actions of these lawmakers. Some worry that this scandal could set back efforts to achieve gender parity in political representation, as it may reinforce negative stereotypes about female leaders.
Moreover, the scandal has prompted a broader conversation about the systemic issues that enable corruption in political institutions. Critics argue that the focus should not solely be on the gender of the individuals involved but rather on the pervasive culture of corruption that allows such incidents to occur. They call for comprehensive reforms to ensure greater accountability and transparency among all lawmakers, regardless of gender.
In the wake of this controversy, there have been renewed calls for stringent anti-corruption measures, including better oversight mechanisms and harsher penalties for those found guilty of accepting bribes. The public outcry also highlights the need for ethical training and education for elected officials to foster a political environment that prioritizes integrity and public service.
On the other hand, Representative Julie Fantuma Wiah of District 2 in Lofa County has notably refrained from making any public statements regarding her position but has stayed aligned with a faction aiming to oust Speaker Koffa. Despite the silence, Rep. Wiah’s actions speak volumes, as she was visibly present at a recent press conference held by the bloc intent on removing the Speaker. The press conference, which took place in Monrovia, showcased the group’s assertive stance, proudly declaring their solid backing of 41 members, including Wiah. Her presence was confirmed during a roll call conducted in front of the media.
Rep. Wiah’s stance is particularly striking given the explicit directives from her political party, the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC). The CDC has issued a firm mandate to its legislative caucus members, instructing them to oppose any efforts to unseat Speaker Koffa. By aligning herself with the bloc seeking Koffa’s removal, Wiah appears to be in open defiance of her party’s directive. This move raises questions about intra-party dynamics and possible fractures within the CDC, as well as Wiah’s political strategy and motivations.
The situation underscores a significant rift within the party and highlights the complex interplay of loyalty, political maneuvering, and individual agency in Liberia’s legislative politics. As the bloc pushing for Speaker Koffa’s removal gains momentum, all eyes will be on Rep. Julie Wiah and her next moves, which could have substantial implications for the unity and direction of her party.
Meanwhile, Montserrado County District #1 Representative Rugie Barry and District #5 Representative Priscilla Cooper have officially withdrawn their support from a petition aimed at removing Hon. Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa from his position as Speaker. Their decision comes in the wake of serious allegations suggesting that some members of the House may have received financial incentives for their signatures on the resolution.
Both lawmakers are among scores of female legislators who are allegedly involved in this scandal, as vividly shown by their signatures on the resolution. Among the eight women serving in the House, five placed their names and signatures on the resolution to remove Speaker Koffa.
These legislators—Representative Marie Johnson from Grand Gedeh County District #2, Representative Julie F. Wiah from Lofa County District #4, Representative Rugie Barry from Montserrado County District #1, Representative Priscilla Cooper from Montserrado County District #5, and Representative Bintu Massalay from Grand Cape Mount District #1—are among the 48 central figures in this unfolding scandal.
Reports emerged early Thursday revealing a troubling scheme reportedly orchestrated by the ruling establishment to remove House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. Representative Luther Collins from Gbarpolu County publicly disclosed that he received an initial payment of $15,000 as part of this controversial effort to secure support for Koffa’s ousting.
Nonetheless, Montserrado County District #1 Representative Rugie Barry stated in a statement early Friday, “I signed a resolution to address important policy and procedural issues. However, it has come to my attention that some members of the House are alleged to have received money for their signatures. I, Rugie Barry, did not receive any money for such. I have built my integrity over my entire life and will not allow my character to be dragged through the mud.”
Representative Barry emphasized that addressing procedural issues should not involve public displays of discord within the Capitol, which is meant to be a place of honor. “Therefore, given the aforementioned, I hereby officially withdraw my signature from the petition to effectuate the removal of Hon. Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa as Speaker of the 55th Liberia Legislature,” she declared. The representative called for calm and urged all parties to engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes the needs of the Liberian people.
Late Thursday, October 17, 2024, Representative Priscilla Cooper also withdrew her support for the process. “Article 49 of the 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, along with Rule 9.1 of the House Rule Book, outlines the procedures for the removal of elected officials, including the Speaker,” she noted. Cooper initially signed the petition with the belief that due process would be followed. However, she condemned the recent events in the House, stating, “What happened today does not represent anything close to being honorable.”
Representative Cooper rejected any notion of participating in a “hostile takeover,” particularly in light of rumors suggesting financial exchanges tied to the petition. “I stand up to anyone without fear or favor, but when there are procedures to follow, those steps must be taken,” she asserted.
She further stated, “Therefore, I, Hon. Priscilla Abram Cooper, officially withdraw my signature from the petition to effectuate the removal of Hon. Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa as Speaker of the 55th Liberia Legislature.” She reaffirmed her commitment to good governance and legislative oversight, emphasizing the importance of strengthening Liberia’s democracy.
Both representatives concluded their statements by disassociating themselves from the petition and highlighted the need for integrity and adherence to proper procedures in the legislative process. “The quest to remove the Speaker through the means adopted is unattainable, and that’s why I am rescinding my signature,” Cooper stated.
As the investigation continues, the implicated lawmakers, both male and female, face mounting pressure to resign and face legal consequences. This incident serves as a stark reminder that the fight against corruption is ongoing and that achieving a truly transparent and accountable political system requires vigilance and commitment from all sectors of society.
