Liberia: CDC Suspends Deputy Speaker Fallah, Lawmakers Ploting Against Speaker Koffa
Monrovia—The National Executive Committee of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has temporarily suspended a number of its lawmakers for their involvement in the Unity Party’s activities, citing violations of the party’s constitution.
By Selma Lomax
Those suspended include representatives from Lofa, River Gee, Margibi, and Maryland counties respectively.
The affected lawmakers include Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah of Lofa County, Hon. Alexander Poure of River Gee County, Hon. Isaac B. Choloplay Wuo of River Gee County, Hon. Johnson S. N. Williams of River Gee County, Hon. Julie F. Wiah of Lofa County, Hon. Momo Siafa Kpoto of Lofa County, Hon. Ivar K. Jones of Margibi County, Hon. Emmanuel Yarl of Margibi County, Hon. Clarence Gahr of Margibi County, Hon. P. Mike Jurry of Maryland County, and Hon. Samson Q. Wiah of Sinoe County.
The party called on President Joseph Boakai to cease his political maneuvering, which they claim threaten to destabilize the democratic framework of Liberia.
The CDC accused President Boakai of attempting to establish a one-party-dominant state that undermines the checks and balances within the government. They also criticize what they perceive as an executive overreach, which includes interference with the legislature and disregard for the decisions made by the judiciary.
The CDC expressed concern over Pres. Boakai’s focus on removing Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, alleging that this move distracts from more pressing issues, such as delayed salaries for Armed Forces of Liberia personnel and rampant government corruption.
“Given the risk this Unity Party strategy poses to our democratic practices, we are astonished that some of our lawmakers would allow themselves to be involved in this process,” the CDC stated.
The party said it remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in Liberia and warned President Joseph Boakai against actions that could jeopardize the country’s hard-won peace.
In related news, the CDC has announced that its Martyrs Day celebration on November 7, 2024, which will take place in District #15, Montserrado County. The event will be marked by a subdued ceremony, and all partisans are encouraged to attend.
The CDC, however, reiterated its focus on “Turning Setbacks into a Great Comeback,” while emphasizing its dedication to the masses’ struggle for democracy.
Deputy Speaker Fallah Accepts Party’s Decision, Pledges Cooperation with Investigation
Deputy Speaker J. Fonati Fallah has accepted his party’s decision to suspend him and has pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
In a statement released shortly after the decision, Fallah expressed that his choice to align with the Majority Bloc was made in the best interest of Liberia and his party, the CDC.
“I have always sacrificed for the CDC, as I demonstrated during our recent campaign in Lofa. Despite facing gunfire and intimidation, we pushed forward and successfully boosted our party’s support from a modest 7% in 2017 to an impressive 37% in 2023,” Fallah said.
He continued, “I want to clarify that my actions in the Legislature are motivated by a deep love for our country and my party, as well as a desire to see Liberia advance. The decisions I make on Capitol Hill are grounded in a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the greater good of our nation. I hope that, in time, these actions will be understood as efforts to protect and uplift both Liberia and our CDC.”
Fallah concluded by stating, “In light of recent developments, I fully accept the party’s decision to suspend me pending investigation. I am prepared to engage with our internal grievance and ethics committee to address the concerns raised. This process is essential for preserving the integrity of our party and restoring the trust of our members. I am ready to cooperate fully, with the hope that we can emerge stronger and more united in the future.”
In another development, the CDC has congratulated U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 American elections.
In a release issued in Monrovia Wednesday, the CDC appreciated the American electorates for their participation in what they describe as a successful demonstration of democracy. They hailed Trump’s win as a strong affirmation of the will of the people.
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