-Sources Confirm
By Jerromie S. Walters
Multiple sources, including Nimba County District #7 Representative Musa Hassan Bility, have revealed that House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has finalized his decision to step down, with a resignation letter already drafted. According to reports, Koffa’s resignation will take effect on May 12, 2025—just one day before the House of Representatives resumes session.
Like Rep. Bility, sources indicate that Speaker Koffa and his team have formally submitted his resignation proposal to former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, who is acting as a key mediator in the process. Johnson-Sirleaf, a respected stateswoman with no active political ambitions and a prominent role in ECOWAS, is expected to facilitate the transition.
As part of the negotiated terms, the government has agreed that Koffa will retain all salaries and benefits accrued during his tenure as Speaker. Additionally, lawmakers previously suspended by the majority bloc will have their salaries reinstated effective May 1, 2025.
Former President Johnson-Sirleaf is anticipated to formally submit Koffa’s resignation letter to the Chief Clerk of the 55th Legislature before the House reconvenes on May 13. Upon resumption, the Chief Clerk will place the resignation on the agenda, officially declaring the Speaker’s position vacant.
In line with the House’s Standing Rules and Orders, Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah will assume interim leadership, overseeing the chamber until a new Speaker is elected within the mandated 60-day period.
