By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Capitol Hill, Monrovia – Seven lawmakers from the minority bloc of the 55th National Legislature have been suspended without pay by the majority bloc, marking a significant development within the legislative body. This suspension, which includes withholding their salaries for December and beyond, is projected to save the government over 2 million Liberian Dollars.
The Majority Bloc has confirmed that the funds, which were initially allocated as December salaries for the suspended lawmakers, have been deposited into the government’s consolidated account. Representative James Kolleh, a member of the Majority Bloc, provided an update, emphasizing that the lawmakers will remain under suspension for a period exceeding three months, in line with the legislative decision.
Background on the Suspensions
The decision to suspend the seven lawmakers stems from alleged misconduct, as outlined by the majority bloc. The suspended individuals include Representatives Frank Saah Foko, Eugene Kollie, Zinnah Norman, and Alex Sonnyboy Noah, who were recently penalized following a motion filed by Representative Nya Flomo. This motion also led to the stripping of their benefits, starting in December.
These latest suspensions bring the total number of lawmakers penalized by the majority bloc to seven. The initial wave of suspensions included Representatives Marvin Cole, Abu Kamara, and Edward Papay Flomo.
Implications
The suspension highlights a growing rift within the Legislature, with the majority bloc taking a firm stance against members of the minority. The financial savings from the withheld salaries have been redirected to bolster government revenue, showcasing a practical outcome of the decision.
As tensions rise within the legislative chamber, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact governance and public confidence in the House of Representatives.
