Capitol Hill – The majority bloc has elected three new lawmakers to represent Liberia at the ECOWAS Parliament, effectively removing key allies of embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa. The decision, reached through a white-ballot process, underscores an escalating power struggle within the legislature over control of Liberia’s representation in the regional body.
New Delegation Elected
The newly selected lawmakers are:
- Moima Briggs Mensah (Bong County District 6) – representing Independent Lawmakers
- Augustine Chiewolo (Lofa County District 5) – representing the ruling Unity Party
- Samson Q. Wiah (Sinoe County District 2) – representing the opposition
Chiewolo and Wiah replace Rev. Samuel Enders and Taa Wongbe, both of whom were appointed under Koffa’s leadership. The shake-up comes amid internal disputes over legislative authority, with critics arguing that Koffa had exerted undue influence over the previous selection process.
The new delegates will represent Liberia in ECOWAS discussions on trade, security, governance, and regional integration.
House Moves Against Koffa’s Influence
The election follows a controversial ruling by the Majority Bloc under Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, which invalidated the previous representatives and mandated a fresh selection. Lawmakers Johnson S.N. Williams and James Kolleh had formally challenged Koffa’s appointments, contending they were made unilaterally and without plenary approval, violating legislative procedures.
The move is widely viewed as a deliberate effort to erode Koffa’s influence, reinforcing the growing divide within the House. With his allies removed, Koffa faces yet another setback as lawmakers assert control over the country’s engagement with ECOWAS.
Snowe Warns Against Political Meddling
Not everyone is backing the House’s decision. Senator Edwin Snowe, Liberia’s senior-most representative at the ECOWAS Parliament, has openly opposed the recall, warning that ECOWAS operates independently and may not recognize the move.
“The ECOWAS Parliament is governed by its own rules, and not even the current ECOWAS Chairman, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, can enforce such a recall,” Snowe stated. He urged President Joseph Boakai to distance himself from the unfolding controversy, cautioning against using legislative disputes as a pretext for political retribution.
ECOWAS Parliament’s Response Uncertain
Despite the House’s decision, there are indications that the ECOWAS Parliament may resist the recall, citing procedural irregularities. If ECOWAS refuses to recognize the new appointments, Liberia’s representation could be thrown into disarray, potentially diminishing the country’s voice in regional affairs.
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