Published: February 4, 2025
CAPITOL HILL – Lawmakers are set to return to their main chambers at the Capitol Building no later than the second Tuesday in March 2025, following a decision by plenary to restore legislative sessions to their official venue. The move is part of efforts to normalize legislative operations after months of internal divisions.
The decision follows a communication from Montserrado County District 4 Representative Michael Thomas, who petitioned plenary to resume sessions in the Chinese-built chamber. Thomas cited constitutional obligations and the resolution of the leadership crisis within the House as key reasons for the transition.
“In line with the aforementioned provisions of the Constitution, coupled with the resolution of the crisis at the Legislature, we currently have one unified House of Representatives under the gavel of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker as first among equals. Thus, we crave the approbation of plenary for the return of our regular sittings at the House Chamber in the Capitol Building,” Thomas stated in his communication.
In response, plenary mandated its Rules, Order, and Administration Committee to begin preparations to make the chamber ready for lawmakers’ return. The committee is expected to assess the facility and ensure it meets necessary standards before the scheduled transition.
The House of Representatives has been holding sessions in temporary venues, including the now-burned Joint Chambers and subsequently the Monrovia City Hall, due to months of internal wrangling that resulted in a leadership standoff.
However, embattled Speaker Cllr. Fonati Koffa continues to challenge the legitimacy of his removal, arguing that the process was unconstitutional. He has refused to vacate the Speaker’s office, urging the majority bloc to obtain the office in the same manner they obtained the speakership.
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