By: Samuel B. Johnson
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has officially requested the appearance of several lawmakers in connection with an ongoing bribery investigation surrounding the removal of former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. In a formal communication to the House of Representatives, the LACC outlined its intent to question selected lawmakers as part of a broader investigation into allegations of bribery in exchange for votes to oust Koffa.
The LACC has identified nine lawmakers who will be required to appear before the Commission's investigation team between June 6 and July 4, 2025.
The lawmakers have been identified as Representatives Clarence Gahr, James M. Kolleh, Michael Thomas, Eugene J.M. Kollie, Zinnah Norman, J. Marvin Cole, Frank Saah Foko, Alex S. Noah, and Edward P. Flomo. Sources familiar with the case indicate that testimonies and financial records are being closely examined to determine if inducements were offered or received in connection with the leadership shakeup.
The LACC has emphasized that hearing directly from the lawmakers allegedly involved is crucial to advancing the investigation and ensuring justice is served. The Commission has pledged to conduct the investigation with fairness, impartiality, and respect for due process, despite the high-profile nature of the case.
The House of Representatives has not yet publicly responded to the LACC's request, but the matter is expected to surface in plenary soon. The investigation places Liberia's anti-graft architecture under the spotlight and could prove to be a critical test of the LACC's ability to investigate sitting lawmakers.
The LACC's pursuit of accountability in the wake of Koffa's ouster underscores a growing demand among Liberians for transparency and the end of impunity in public office. Observers say the outcome of this investigation will be closely watched, as it has significant implications for Liberia's democratic and accountability institutions.
As the investigation moves into its next phase, the lawmakers summoned by the LACC will be required to provide testimony and evidence related to the allegations. The Commission's commitment to upholding the rule of law and combating corruption at all levels of government is being put to the test, and the outcome will likely have far-reaching consequences for Liberia's governance landscape.
