By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia – Lofa County District #5 Representative Augustine B. Chiewolo has clarified that the recent boycott by over 40 lawmakers and their separate meeting in Margibi was not a plot to remove Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon and Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, but a demand for legitimate district benefits and development funds.
Rep. Chiewolo confirmed he was part of the meeting that followed the boycott of the official flag-hoisting ceremony on October 9, 2026, which marked the opening of the last quarter of the House’s sitting. Reports on social media had listed his name among those allegedly seeking to oust the leadership.
The lawmaker explained that the Margibi RIA Highway gathering was intended for members to harmonize their grievances after several unsuccessful engagements with the House leadership. He stressed that the intent was never to stage a leadership change.
Chiewolo dismissed claims of a leadership coup, stating clearly that he would not be part of any such move. “The meeting was not about removing the speaker or deputy speaker. If it was for that, I won’t be part of it,” he said.
According to him, the frustration stems from nearly three years of unmet district needs and unaccounted funds. He cited the Legislative Support Projects and county development funds as examples, noting that while projects were implemented in 2024, including latrines and water systems, nothing was seen for 2025 and 2026.
Chiewolo said the pressure from constituents is immense, as citizens expect financial support that many lawmakers cannot provide without their legitimate benefits. “We’ve gone almost pretty close to three years… if you should close our mouth and go to 2027, it becomes a death trap. We will not get what in the budget for us.
He rejected criticism that lawmakers are fighting only for personal benefits while ignoring national issues, noting that the House regularly summons the Ministers of Health and Education so as to keep them engaged and pushing for the best. He argued that a lawmaker must be capacitated to effectively look after the country, adding: “If I’m not capacitated, I cannot come Lofa County. So, we start with ourselves and we start with you.”
Chiewolo affirmed his loyalty to the current leadership, describing any suggestion of betrayal as unfounded, but insisted that accountability and transparency over district funds must be addressed to restore trust.
