By By Contributing Writer
Legal representatives of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah on Tuesday staged a dramatic walkout from an investigative hearing, describing the proceedings as “irregular” and inconsistent with established principles of due process.
The lawyers, led by Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi, withdrew from the session after the committee reportedly denied them the opportunity to speak, despite formally inviting them to represent their client. The development immediately raised questions about the procedural integrity of the ongoing legislative inquiry.
Dispute Over Legal Representation
According to the defense team, their decision to exit the hearing was prompted by what they termed a refusal by the committee to allow them to perform their legal duties. They argued that such a restriction undermines the fundamental right of a client to adequate legal representation.
“The process leading to the investigation is illegal and irregular. Inadequate representation of a client is against the Code of Conduct,” Cllr. Massaquoi stated during the proceedings.
Demand for Evidence and Procedures
Central to the lawyers’ objections was the committee’s alleged failure to provide essential materials, including evidence, procedural rules, and official records related to the case. The defense maintained that access to such documents is critical before any meaningful legal representation can be offered.
“We requested the rules. We requested the recordings and evidence. We have to see them before providing legal representation for our client,” Massaquoi asserted, emphasizing that the process must be guided by the House of Representatives’ established procedures.
Quasi-Judicial Nature of Proceedings
The legal team further argued that the hearing constitutes a quasi-judicial process, which obligates the committee to adhere strictly to legal standards, including transparency and fairness.
“If you made an allegation against our client, we need your evidence in order to guide our client. This body is not above the law,” Massaquoi said, stressing that adherence to the rule of law remains paramount.
Warning of Judicial Review
In a strongly worded caution, the lawyers indicated that any decision reached by the committee could be challenged before the Supreme Court of Liberia, noting that the current proceedings remain subject to judicial oversight.
“Whatever decision they make here is subject to judicial review at the Supreme Court. Our client is an honorable lawmaker… You cannot deny the man of his liberties and rights,” Massaquoi added.
Call for Due Process
The defense team concluded by reiterating that their primary objective is not to obstruct the investigation but to ensure that it is conducted within the bounds of the law.
“We have not come here to circumvent the process. All we seek is due process for our client,” Massaquoi emphasized.
Further details surrounding the investigation and the committee’s response to the walkout are expected as the situation continues to unfold.
