-in Unanimous Vote
Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia –During its Tuesday, May 13, 2025, session, Liberia’s House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to lift the suspensions of 16 lawmakers, ending one of the most contentious chapters in the legislature’s recent history.
The motion, introduced by Bong County Representative James Kolleh, passed with 35 votes in favor, zero against, and no abstentions—a rare show of consensus after months of bitter division. The reinstatements come weeks after Liberia’s Supreme Court ruled that key actions by the House’s majority bloc violated constitutional procedures.
A Fractured Legislature Heals
The suspensions, which began in late 2024, paralyzed legislative business and deprived thousands of citizens of representation. Critics accused the Majority Bloc, led by Montserrado County District #11 Representative Richard Koon, of weaponizing disciplinary rules to sideline opposition voices.
During the leadership dispute, 16 of the 73 lawmakers were suspended, marking one of the most turbulent periods in Liberia’s legislative history. The suspensions—largely targeting the minority bloc—left thousands of constituents without representation and intensified political divisions.
December 13, 2024: Reps. Frank Saah Foko Jr., Eugine K.M. Kollie, Zinnah Norman, and Alex S. Noah were suspended for 30 session days under Rule 48.7(c) for alleged violations, forfeiting salaries and benefits.
- November 19, 2024: Reps. Edward P. Flomo, Abu Kamara, and Marvin Cole were suspended for misconduct. Flomo and Cole later had suspensions extended after being seen near the Capitol during their penalties.
- Subsequent Suspensions: Vocal critics, including Rep. Yekeh Kolubah and former Speaker Koffa, were suspended for “persistent absences” under House Rule 21.1bOthers suspended included Reps. Dixon Seboe, Musa Bility, and Luther Collins.
The Majority Bloc, led by Rep. Koon, also restructured House leadership, authorized forceful treatment of lawmakers, and reportedly ordered the breaking into Rep. Kolubah’s vehicle.
