Published: January 6, 2025
MONROVIA – The House of Representatives has firmly rejected a motion to lift the suspension of seven lawmakers. During a heated session on Monday, the majority bloc voted down a plea to allow the suspended legislators to return and receive their December 2024 salaries.
Montserrado County District #8 Representative Prince Toles had filed a communication seeking clemency for the suspended lawmakers, urging the House to restore them to active status. However, Margibi County District #5 Representative Clarence Gahr countered with a motion to dismiss the request, which the majority swiftly endorsed.
Suspension Background
The seven lawmakers, all aligned with embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa, were sanctioned by the majority bloc last month. They include Frank Saah Foko, Eugene Kollie, Zinnah Norman, Alex Sonnyboy Noah, Marvin Cole, Abu Kamara, and Edward Papay Flomo. The lawmakers were suspended for what the majority bloc considered “misconduct” on the part of these lawmakers.
On October 17, 2024, Representative Marvin Cole, who served as the House Chairman on Rules, Order, and Administration locked the doors to the House’s chambers, insisting that Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah would not preside over that day’s session.
The altercation between Cole and Fallah occurred as House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa ( now embattled) was away in Europe with President Joseph Boakai at the Vatican.
Cole was recorded on berating the Deputy Speaker, labeling him a “criminal” who was jeopardizing the safety and integrity of his colleagues. “You’re a big rogue, you think we’ll sit down here for you to play with our lives, we’ll never do it,” Cole shouted during the tense standoff, warning Fallah of regrettable consequences if he attempted to force entry into the chambers.
Calls for Reconciliation
Monday’s session saw appeals for reconciliation from some lawmakers. Representatives Sekou Kanneh and Thomas Romeo Quiah called for unity, urging their colleagues to reinstate the suspended members as a gesture of goodwill. Despite these appeals, the majority bloc remained resolute not to grant pardon.
Suspended Lawmaker Barred
On Monday, suspended Bong County District #5 Representative Eugene Kollie attempted to join the session. Presiding Officer Richard Koon immediately ordered Kollie to vacate the chamber, reiterating that his suspension remained in full effect.
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