Published: November 6, 2024
Monrovia – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has suspended several of its lawmakers, accusing them of betraying the party by aligning with the ‘majority bloc’ in the House of Representatives in an effort to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa.
This action follows a legal and political battle over Koffa’s leadership, with the Supreme Court recently lifting a stay order, allowing the majority bloc to proceed with their challenge.
On November 6, 2024, the CDC National Executive Committee condemned the actions of party-affiliated lawmakers supporting the Majority Bloc. The committee specifically called out Representatives Samuel G. Kogar and Richard Nagbe Koon, leaders of the bloc, demanding accountability for their involvement. The party described the lawmakers’ actions as unconstitutional, alleging they had allowed themselves to be used in what it called a dubious political scheme orchestrated by Joseph Boakai and the Unity Party.
“The CDC remains committed to defending the peace and stability of the state and warns Joseph Boakai to refrain from introducing political schemes that could disrupt our recently achieved peace,” the party stated.
Among those suspended is Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah of Lofa County, who presided over the parallel session of the Majority Bloc on Thursday and again on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The CDC has requested that these lawmakers appear before the party’s National Disciplinary Committee (Grievance and Ethics Committee) to be investigated, emphasizing the need to uphold internal party rules and prevent further disruptions.
The suspensions come in the wake of a pivotal Supreme Court ruling on November 6, 2024. The Court lifted its previous stay order, effectively giving the Majority Bloc the green light to challenge Koffa’s leadership. Associate Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr. announced the decision, allowing the bloc to continue its parallel legislative sessions.
Speaker Koffa had sought a writ of prohibition to halt the sessions, arguing that the actions of the Majority Bloc represented a deviation from proper legislative processes. However, the Court’s ruling has re-energized efforts to remove him over allegations of a “conflict of interest” and a “laissez-faire” leadership approach.
The internal conflict has deepened divisions within the House of Representatives, where the Majority Bloc continues to push for Koffa’s removal.
In response to his suspension, Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah expressed acceptance of the CDC’s decision and a commitment to cooperate with the party’s internal processes.
“To my beloved CDC family, I want to make it clear that my actions in the Legislature are motivated by a deep love for our country, my party, and a desire to see Liberia move forward,” Fallah stated. He emphasized that his legislative decisions have always been guided by transparency, accountability, and the greater good of Liberia.
Fallah acknowledged the CDC’s decision to suspend him pending an investigation and pledged his full cooperation with the party’s Grievance and Ethics Committee. “I stand ready to cooperate fully, with the hope that we can emerge stronger and more united in the years ahead,” he added.
Despite his suspension, Fallah reaffirmed his loyalty to the CDC and its leadership, noting his dedication during the 2023 election campaign in Lofa County as evidence of his commitment. “I have always sacrificed for the CDC and demonstrated my dedication, even in challenging circumstances,” he said.
Fallah urged his party to remain united for Liberia’s betterment, expressing hope for reconciliation and continued progress. “Our journey is far from over, and there is still much we can achieve as a united force,” he stated.
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