Capitol Hill, Monrovia — The leadership crisis at the House of Representatives continues to deepen with the formation of a new bloc, the Rule of Law Caucus, composed of members backing the embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. Over the weekend, the caucus unanimously elected Representative Musa Hassan Bility (District #7, Montserrado County) as its chairman.
Announcing his election on his Facebook page, Rep. Bility expressed gratitude for the unanimous vote of confidence from the 28-member bloc, which was reportedly formed on the recommendation of Speaker Koffa.
"This decision, taken by my colleagues who chose to stand by the law, is a profound moment for me, my family, and my district. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my colleagues for trusting me to lead during this crucial time in our nation's history," he said.
In his remarks, Bility acknowledged the significant challenges facing the House leadership and pledged to restore order and effectiveness to the legislative body.
"The challenges before us as leaders of this country are immense, and the leadership of the House of Representatives is facing significant trials. I am fully aware of the burden placed on me by this responsibility, and I embrace it with commitment and resolve. My focus will be to restore normalcy to the House and ensure that every representative can carry out their constitutional duty to represent their people effectively," he stated.
Bility further committed to upholding the rule of law and fostering a spirit of cooperation among his colleagues, emphasizing the need to prioritize the Liberian people's needs over individual interests. "I pledge to lead faithfully, to listen to my colleagues, and to work toward our collective goals and aspirations," he added.
Leadership Crisis Deepens
The formation of the Rule of Law Caucus comes in the wake of a contentious leadership dispute within the House. The Majority Bloc recently declared Speaker Koffa's position vacant and elected Representative Richard Koon as their Speaker. This move has exacerbated divisions, with the Majority Bloc asserting legitimacy and conducting legislative affairs, while the Pro-Koffa group accuses them of unconstitutional actions and power usurpation.
Acknowledging the division, Rep. Bility extended an olive branch to his colleagues on the opposing side. "To my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, I urge all members to reflect soberly on our current impasse and its impact on the people we represent," he said.
Bility highlighted the inability of both blocs to either secure a quorum or legally function, which has stalled legislative sessions and undermined effective governance. "This inability has stalled legislative sessions, preventing both oversight and effective governance. This should serve as a reminder that our division is our weakness. Let us turn this realization into strength by uniting to find common ground for the sake of our country," he added.
Call for Unity and Oversight
Rep. Bility urged lawmakers to prioritize the bigger picture--the well-being of the Liberian people--over personal gains and power struggles. He noted that the legislative impasse has allowed the executive branch to operate unchecked for three months, leaving citizens vulnerable. "Our primary oversight responsibility has been the most significant casualty during this crisis. It is time to return to work, resolve our differences, and restore the integrity of this honorable body," he stressed.
Addressing President Joseph Boakai, Bility called for sincere engagement with the legislature to resolve the crisis. "A crisis in one branch of government weakens the entire system. The people of Liberia deserve a government that works in harmony to address their needs and move the country forward," he said.
A Commitment to Resolve the Impasse
Rep. Bility concluded by pledging to work tirelessly to end the stalemate, but called for collective efforts from all lawmakers. "My colleagues have entrusted me with the task of ending this impasse. I pledge to work tirelessly to find a solution without compromising the rule of law. But I cannot do it alone. I ask for your cooperation, patriotism, and love for our country. Let us restore democracy, normalcy, and the people's confidence in their government," he stated.
The formation of the Rule of Law Caucus adds another layer to the ongoing leadership crisis, signaling a prolonged period of uncertainty for the House of Representatives and, by extension, the governance of Liberia.
Majority Bloc Maintains Legitimacy
The ongoing crisis coincides with President Joseph Boakai's anticipated State of the Nation Address later this month. Concerns are mounting that the legislative impasse may overshadow the President's address, potentially hindering the government's ability to effectively communicate its agenda and priorities to the nation.
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Despite the formation of the Rule of Law Caucus, the Majority Bloc, emboldened by support from the Liberian Senate and the Executive, continues to steer the affairs of the House of Representatives.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Majority Bloc announced that the 55th Legislature would officially close its session on Monday, January 6, following a three-week extension granted to facilitate the completion of key legislative matters. Initially, the Legislature was scheduled to adjourn on Friday, December 13, 2024.
As part of the closing activities, the statement revealed that Majority Bloc's Speaker, Richard Nagbe Koon, is expected to present a comprehensive statistical report. The report will outline the number of bills passed, those submitted for consideration, and those still under review in committee rooms.
The statement further noted that the Legislature is expected to resume on Monday, January 13, 2025, in accordance with Chapter 5, Article 32(a) of the 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia. This provision mandates the Legislature to assemble in regular session once a year on the second working Monday in January.
