-But!
By Jerromie S. Walters
Montserrado County District #1 Representative Rugie Barry and District #5 Representative Priscilla Cooper have officially withdrawn their support from a petition aimed at removing Cllr.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 too 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.
However, 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, in view of 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.
