By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon192seokin@gmail.com
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has set aside the ruling from the Supreme Court into the Bill of Information which recognizes Cllr. Fonati Koffa as the legitimate Speaker of the House of Representative.
In the court ruling, it reorganizes Koffa as the legitimate Speaker of the 55th Legislature, denouncing all actions of the majority bloc – describing them as illegal.
Many thought the Liberian leader had followed suit by taking a definitive position in line with the Supreme Court but instead the Liberian Leader promised to work with the body that has quorum.
“Fellow Liberians, our Constitution and the Supreme Court have defined what constitutes a quorum for the conduct of business in the Legislature. We intend to vigorously uphold this vital principle of our constitutional democracy. We will continue to work with the quorum that will ensure the full functioning of our government.” The President said.
In an address to the nation late Thursday evening, the president said though he acknowledged the ruling of the high court, the problem at the House of Representatives remains unresolved.
According to President Boakai, his administration has already initiated broad consultations with relevant national stakeholders to determine the most appropriate and constitutionally sound path forward.
“We have actively involved our traditional and other national leaders in addressing this matter. In doing so, we remain fully committed to preserving the sanctity of our democracy and the principle of three separate but coordinate branches of government.” The President noted.
Report of Acts of Vandalism
Amid rising tension among members of the House of Representatives, President Boakai disclosed that his office has received reports of acts of vandalism intended to desecrate the dignity of public institutions and buildings.
“The Police are investigating. Let me be clear: under my leadership, the government of Liberia will not be held hostage by narrow interests or acts of lawlessness. The work of governance will continue, and nothing will distract us from our duty to serve the Liberian people.”
He said Liberia is a country governed by laws, not by mobs or self-serving ambition. “Those who undermine peace, violate the law, or seek to disrupt national harmony will face the full force of the law and justice.”
He then urged all Liberians to go about their daily lives peacefully and confidently and that his government remains functional and steadfast in its responsibility to deliver services, maintain order, and uphold the values of democracy and good governance.
Elected Leaders Remember Your Oath
The President in his address to the nation called on every elected leader to remember their oath, not to themselves, but to the Liberian nation-state and people.
He also called on every citizen to rise above division and to demonstrate the enduring values of patriotism, unity, and national purpose.
“As we seek a political resolution to the impasse, let us do so with calm heads and committed hearts, ever mindful that Liberia is bigger than any one person, party, or position. We will protect our democracy. We will preserve our peace. And together, we will move Liberia forward.”
