-Calls for Immediate Action
The Rural Law Caucus of the House of Representatives of the 55th National Legislature of the Republic of Liberia has strongly condemned the unlawful actions of Representative Kolleh and a group of individuals who forcibly evicted embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa from his office.
The eviction, led by Bong County Representative James Kolleh, involved breaking into the Speaker’s office and clearing out his (Speaker Koffa) personal belongings on Tuesday.
The incident, which occurred on Armed Forces Day—a day when Liberians were celebrating the nation’s military and welcoming the Head of State of Sierra Leone—has been described as a blatant violation of the rule of law and a threat to national stability.
Unprecedented Act of Lawlessness
The Caucus characterized the actions as reckless, dangerous, and a direct assault on Liberia’s democratic institutions. “This behavior undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent that could plunge our nation into crisis,” the statement read. “There is no place for such lawlessness in our democracy, and it must not be tolerated.”
The Rural Law Caucus called on President Joseph N. Boakai to address the situation urgently, emphasizing that the actions of Representative Kolleh and his associates pose a significant threat to national security and stability. The group also urged the Minister of Justice to hold the perpetrators accountable, warning that their conduct suggests they may have acted with assurances of impunity.
“We demand that the Minister of Justice ensure these individuals face the full consequences of their actions,” the statement continued. “No one is above the law, and such reckless behavior must be met with swift and decisive legal action.”
Appeal to National and International Stakeholders
The Caucus appealed to the Cabinet, the international community, the Religious Council, the Council of Churches, the Muslim Council, and all stakeholders to intervene and help restore order. They emphasized the need for collective action to prevent further escalation and to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
“We call on all Liberians to join us in rejecting this act of lawlessness,” the statement urged. “This is not just an attack on the Speaker’s office; it is an attack on our democracy and the values we hold dear as a nation.”
Legal Action Against Representative Kolleh
The Rural Law Caucus also announced its intention to pursue legal action against Representative Kolleh, holding him accountable for what they described as “violent, unlawful, and uncivilized actions.” They vowed to ensure that he faces the full weight of the law for his role in the incident.
In closing, the Caucus reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting Liberia’s democratic institutions. “The rule of law must prevail,” the statement declared. “We will not stand idly by while our democracy is threatened by acts of violence and lawlessness.”
