Monrovia City Court Orders The Eviction of Montserrado County Lawmaker Over $620 Rent Debt

The Monrovia City Court has taken a bold step to enforce accountability, ordering the eviction of Montserrado County District #9 Representative Frank Saah Foko from his rented property on 17th Street, Sinkor. The lawmaker, entrusted with representing the interests of his constituents, finds himself at the center of a legal saga that raises serious questions about personal responsibility and public trust.

At the heart of the matter is a rent debt of $620, reportedly owed since October 2024. With a monthly rent of $155, Representative Foko’s landlord, Saiku A. Fahnbulleh, turned to the courts after failed attempts to recover possession of the property. The court, acting within its mandate, issued an In-Re writ of possession, commanding the sheriff to “oust, eject, remove, and evict” the lawmaker and all those under his control from the premises.

For many, this development is a glaring example of the challenges Liberia faces regarding accountability, even among those in positions of power. How does a sitting representative, earning a government salary and allowances, find himself defaulting on such a modest amount of rent? What message does this send to the ordinary Liberians struggling to make ends meet and fulfill their obligations?

It is equally troubling that Representative Foko, having been served with the court’s writ, reportedly pleaded for two days to relocate. While it is commendable that he appears to be cooperating with the court’s decision, the situation reflects poorly on the image of public officials in the country.

Liberians deserve leaders who lead by example, not only in policy decisions but also in their personal conduct. This incident is a reminder that no one is above the law, and the judiciary has a crucial role in upholding fairness and justice, regardless of status or title.

As this case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Representative Foko will take responsibility for his actions and work to rebuild the trust of his constituents. After all, leadership begins with accountability, and the people of District #9 deserve nothing less.