CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA: As a wave of protest looms over Capitol Hill tomorrow, with aggrieved citizens demanding that legislators opposing Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa respect the Constitution, the Speaker himself has issued a statement, reaffirming his commitment to uphold the nation’s laws.
Writing on his official Facebook Page on Sunday, November 3, 2024, Speaker Koffa reasserted the oath he took upon assuming office in January, reminding both his supporters and critics of his dedication to Liberia’s democratic values.
The Speaker wrote,
“I, J. Fonati Koffa, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.”
He continued, stressing the personal gravity of this commitment:
“This is the oath we took on January 15, 2024, and this is the oath for which we live our political career, and if need be, we are prepared for political death.”
Koffa’s statement comes at a tense time, as a coalition of citizens prepares to gather on Capitol Hill in a show of support for the country’s constitution.
The Planned demonstrators are calling on lawmakers opposing Koffa’s leadership to honor the principles enshrined in Liberia’s Constitution and respect the Speaker’s position as elected by the House.
The protest reflects growing public frustration with recent moves to unseat Koffa, which some citizens view as politically motivated and contrary to the democratic process. Many demonstrators argue that attempts to remove the Speaker threaten the integrity of Liberia’s legislative body and undermine the stability of the government. This protest, they contend, is not just about Koffa’s role but about preserving the sanctity of Liberia’s democratic institutions.
Speaker Koffa vows to defend the Constitution “against all enemies, foreign and domestic” and his willingness to face “political death” underscores his commitment to uphold his office’s duties, even amid the growing pressure. His words have rallied supporters who see him as a steadfast leader unwilling to bend under the weight of political challenges.
As the planned protest unfolds, all eyes will be on Capitol Hill to witness how both lawmakers and citizens respond to the Speaker’s resolute stance. The outcome of this standoff may have lasting implications for Liberia’s political landscape, with Speaker Koffa’s commitment to the Constitution serving as a rallying cry for those advocating for stability and respect for the democratic process.