Liberian House of Representatives in Crisis: Speaker Koffa’s Bloc Struggles to Secure Quorum.
By: Melvin Flomo
In a critical turn for Liberia’s legislative process, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa bloc within the House of Representatives failed to meet quorum requirements, gathering only 28 out of the 73 members for an official session. To proceed with House matters, at least 37 lawmakers are needed for quorum. Representative Rugie Yatu Barry of Montserrado County District #1 was excused, leaving 44 lawmakers absent including the Deputy Speaker—signaling a persistent issue in legislative attendance.
This shortfall, coupled with many lawmakers and Secretariat members aligning with the majority bloc in a separate joint session, has heightened scrutiny on attendance and the House’s ability to fulfill its duties. These repeated quorum failures have raised concerns about the functionality and effectiveness of Liberia’s legislative body.
In light of the attendance issue, Representative Musa Bility proposed that the House consider adjourning permanently. Bility suggested notifying the Senate of this decision under Article 33 of the Liberian Constitution, which mandates that at least 37 lawmakers must be present for any formal session. His proposal underscores a growing concern over the House’s repeated inability to meet quorum and deliver on legislative responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Speaker Koffa announced a leadership meeting scheduled for Monday to discuss Bility’s proposal and evaluate possible solutions. Alongside this, Koffa’s bloc will consult with the House’s legal team at the Supreme Court of Liberia, possibly to explore legal remedies or guidance in navigating the legislative gridlock.
In the meantime, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah and 44 other members attended a parallel session held within the joint chambers. Although Chief Clerk was absent due to illness, Deputy Speaker Fallah stressed the need for adherence to due process, emphasizing that legislative continuity remains essential even amid setbacks.
Moreover, both blocs have since adjourned temporarily and plan to reconvene on Tuesday, with expectations for further discussions on resolving quorum challenges and ensuring the House’s functionality. The outcome of Monday’s leadership meeting and the subsequent House session could be pivotal, potentially influencing both the legislative body’s operational direction and broader governance matters in Liberia.
As the House grapples with these internal challenges, Liberia’s legislative process faces a crucial test, and the government and public alike are keenly observing how leadership will address the impasse.
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