By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia – Liberia’s Supreme Court today hears a pivotal case that could end the five-month paralysis gripping the House of Representatives, as embattled Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa makes what observers call his “last stand” against what he claims was an unconstitutional coup attempt.
The hearing comes amid unprecedented legislative chaos that has seen 16 lawmakers suspended, physical altercations in the chambers, and growing international concern. Following today’s hearing, the Supreme Court will schedule a date to communicate its decision. The crisis in the House of Representatives began on October 17, 2024, when dissident lawmakers attempted to oust Koffa, culminating in the controversial November 21 election of Richard Nagbe Koon as rival Speaker.
While the Supreme Court previously ruled these actions “ultra vires,” the Executive Branch and Senate surprisingly endorsed Koon’s faction, creating parallel power structures. Recent months have witnessed shocking developments, security forces breaking into opposition lawmakers’ vehicles, the majority bloc authorizing “forceful treatment” of colleagues, and 22% of legislators now suspended, leaving constituencies unrepresented
National Repercussions
The standoff has frozen critical legislation and drawn rare ECOWAS intervention, with delegations meeting both factions this week. Civil society groups warn the crisis threatens democratic foundations, as New Kru Town residents recently decried the “deafening silence” of religious leaders.
While Christian and Muslim groups initiated reconciliation talks, proposals reveal irreconcilable positions: Koon’s bloc demands Koffa’s resignation, while the minority insists on constitutional compliance.
Today’s hearing revisits Koffa’s Bill of Information challenging his removal’s legality. Legal experts suggest the Court’s decision could either: validate Koffa’s speakership and nullify suspensions, or effectively cement Koon’s control, reshaping Liberia’s political landscape
With Monrovia on edge, pundits say this ruling may determine whether Liberia’s legislature descends further into chaos or begins healing from its most severe institutional crisis since the civil war.
The hearing comes as the House has adjourned its regular sessions for the first quarter of the second session, which ran from January 13, 2025, to March 20, 2025. Deputy House Speaker Thomas P. Fallah, who presided over the session, provided a comprehensive report on the House’s activities during the quarter.
According to Deputy Speaker Fallah, the House held a total of 25 sittings, comprising 17 regular (open) sessions, 3 executive sessions, and 5 leadership meetings. During this period, two bills were passed—one originating from the House and one from the Senate—while 22 legislative items, including bills, resolutions, and petitions, remain under review in various committees.
The report also detailed 14 appearances in both plenary and leadership sessions, alongside 65 communications received from lawmakers, the Executive Branch, institutions, individuals, and international sources. Presiding duties were shared between the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, with a combined total of 16 sessions presided over during the quarter.
