TROUBLED BY MAJORITY BLOC's ACTIONS: CLLR GONGLOE CRIES OUT

Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe

The self-proclaimed "majority bloc" actions in Liberia's House of Representatives over the past six months have been nothing short of a constitutional and democratic crisis. Their blatant disregard for legal norms, procedural integrity, and the rule of law has plunged Liberia's legislature into disarray and severely tarnished the nation’s democratic image. Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe’s critique of these actions is both timely and necessary, as the majority bloc’s behavior threatens to erode the very foundations of Liberia’s governance.

1. Constitutional Violations

The majority bloc’s attempt to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa without securing the constitutionally mandated two-thirds majority (49 votes) is a glaring violation of Articles 33 and 49 of Liberia’s Constitution. Despite clear rulings from the Supreme Court affirming these requirements, the bloc proceeded to elect Representative Richard Koon as Speaker, creating a parallel leadership structure that is both unconstitutional and destabilizing[5][11]. This reckless disregard for constitutional provisions undermines public trust in legislative processes.

2. Defiance of Supreme Court Orders

The Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled against the majority bloc’s actions, emphasizing that legislative proceedings must adhere to constitutional norms. However, the bloc has openly defied these rulings by continuing to conduct illegitimate sessions under Koon’s leadership[3][5][12]. Such defiance not only weakens Liberia’s judiciary but also sets a dangerous precedent for lawlessness within the legislature.

3. Legislative Paralysis

The majority bloc’s actions have effectively paralyzed legislative functions. Their refusal to attend sessions presided over by Speaker Koffa has disrupted quorum requirements, delaying critical debates on national issues such as the 2025 budget[6]. Instead of prioritizing governance, they have chosen political grandstanding, leaving pressing national concerns unaddressed and exacerbating public disillusionment with Liberia's political class[9].

4. Questionable Budget Passage

One of the most egregious actions by the majority bloc was their unilateral passage of the 2025 National Budget during an emergency session held at Monrovia City Hall. This session bypassed standard legislative procedures and took place under contested leadership[2]. The Senate’s subsequent concurrence with this budget further highlights how deeply procedural violations have permeated Liberia’s governance structures.

5. Disrespect Toward ECOWAS Delegations

The majority bloc’s treatment of ECOWAS delegations tasked with mediating the crisis is a diplomatic embarrassment. Reports indicate that members aligned with Koon insulted and expelled ECOWAS representatives from the Capitol Building in March 2025[7][8]. This behavior not only breaches diplomatic norms but also risks alienating Liberia from its regional allies, including ECOWAS, which played a crucial role in restoring peace during Liberia's civil wars.

6. Tarnishing Liberia’s International Image

Liberia’s reputation as Africa’s oldest democratic republic has been severely damaged by the majority bloc’s actions. Their unconstitutional maneuvers and disrespect for regional institutions jeopardize Liberia's bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council[8][11]. This crisis undermines Liberia's historic role as a leader in promoting international peace and security.

7. Erosion of Democratic Norms

The majority bloc’s actions reflect a broader erosion of democratic principles in Liberia. By bypassing constitutional checks and balances, manipulating legislative procedures, and aligning themselves with executive interests, they have turned the House into a battleground for personal and partisan agendas rather than a forum for national governance[10][12]. This behavior threatens to further destabilize Liberia’s fragile democracy.

8. Call for Accountability

Cllr. Gongloe rightly calls on Liberians to demand accountability from their leaders and uphold constitutional principles[11]. He emphasizes that this crisis is not just about legislative dysfunction but also about safeguarding Liberia's democratic integrity for future generations. Resolving this impasse will require collective action from lawmakers, civil society, and international partners to restore order and ensure adherence to constitutional norms.

The actions of the majority bloc represent an unprecedented assault on Liberia's democratic institutions. Their disregard for constitutional provisions, judicial authority, and diplomatic norms has plunged the country into a governance crisis with far-reaching implications. As Cllr. Gongloe aptly notes that this is not just a political dispute but a direct challenge to Liberia's identity as a democratic nation governed by the rule of law. The time for decisive action is now—Liberia cannot afford further erosion of its democratic foundations.

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Additional Sources:

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