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ADNews- Monrovia: A group of 41 lawmakers has wrapped up a strategic meeting in Barnesville Town Hall, during which they elected leadership aimed at accelerating the removal of Liberian 55th Legislative Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. This action comes in response to allegations of significant corruption, conflict of interest, and misuse of power.
The newly elected leadership tasked with pursuing Koffa’s removal includes Samuel Kogar Nimba District #5, Chairman, Sekou Kanneh, Montserrado District #2, Co-Chairman, and Marcus Thomas from Montserrado District #4 as Secretary.
Koffa faces serious accusations involving over $7 million in unaccounted funds from his tenure as Deputy Speaker of the 54th Legislature. He is also alleged to have engaged in conflicts of interest by leveraging his power to influence various functions and decisions within the government and the private sector.
The majority bloc of lawmakers seeking Koffa’s removal claims he received $9.7 million over two budgetary years—2022 and 2023—while serving as Deputy Speaker. This amount is far beyond what was allocated for his office, raising significant concerns among his colleagues.
In 2022, the Legislature approved a budget of $1.5 million for Koffa as Deputy Speaker. However, reports indicate that he collected approximately $5.6 million by the end of that fiscal year. A similar situation occurred in 2023, when the Legislature allocated $1.1 million, but Koffa allegedly appropriated $4.1 million for himself.
Additionally, the majority bloc has accused Speaker Koffa of continuing to serve as a lead consultant and lawyer for various government agencies, concessions, and private companies. These include entities such as the Liberia Petroleum and Refining Corporation, the Liberia Maritime Authority, and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority—all of which fall under the oversight of the House.
The allegations have prompted a wave of discontent among lawmakers, who argue that Koffa’s actions undermine the integrity of the legislative body.
Information obtained suggests that Koffa’s removal is inevitable, as the coalition of lawmakers is prepared to take decisive action. They are currently awaiting the opportune moment to implement their plans.
The outcome of this political turmoil could set a precedent for accountability and transparency within the government.
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