By By Alphanso G. Kalama;
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Counselor J. Fonati Koffa, embattled speaker and a member of the House of Representatives, has sharply rebuked the Chief Clerk of the House over a letter regarding his office occupancy.
In a strongly worded response dated January 31, 2025, Koffa dismissed the letter—allegedly sent by Chief Clerk Mildred Sayon—as an “unlawful usurpation” of legislative authority. The letter, which he says was relayed via WhatsApp by Hon. James Kolleh, purportedly conveyed a plenary decision about his office space.
Koffa, however, argues that the plenary, controlled by the majority block, had voted on January 30 to defer the matter to February 4, making any instructions before then illegitimate.
In his response, Koffa did not hold back, calling out what he perceives as an abuse of power.
“Please inform those who instructed you to write such a letter that they should obtain the office in the same manner as they obtained the speakership—illegally and with the force of the executive,” he wrote.
The statement is a direct shot at the recent Speakership election, which some lawmakers and political observers claim was influenced by external forces, particularly the Executive Branch.
Koffa further accused Justice Minister Oswald Tweh of enabling what he calls an “illegal act” through his legal interpretation of the ongoing dispute.
The letter adds fuel to growing tensions within the House, where leadership battles have left lawmakers divided. As the February 4 plenary session looms, it remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold and whether Koffa will be forced out of his current office.
