A high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met with the purported Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, and other lawmakers of the majority bloc on Tuesday in an effort to foster dialogue amid an ongoing leadership crisis at the Capitol.
The closed-door discussions centered on recent tensions in the Legislature, including the controversial ‘removal’ of embattled Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa and the subsequent restructuring of House committees. The Majority Bloc, led by Koon, presented documents outlining their position on the legitimacy of the leadership transition.
Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, a seasoned diplomat and head of the ECOWAS delegation, clarified that the visit was not intended as formal mediation. “Liberia’s challenges must be resolved by Liberians themselves,” he stressed. “External actors can only support, not impose, solutions without the genuine commitment of national stakeholders.”
The delegation, which included ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, emphasized the importance of stability and adherence to democratic norms. Their presence, though not interventionist, signaled regional concern over the legislative standoff.
Purported Speaker Koon, whose leadership remains contested, assured the delegation of his bloc’s dedication to transparency and collaboration. “Resolving this impasse is critical for governance and the welfare of the Liberian people,” he said, thanking ECOWAS for encouraging peaceful discourse.
However, the political deadlock persists, with rival factions awaiting a Supreme Court ruling expected on Wednesday. The decision could either solidify Koon’s position or reignite tensions if the court overturns recent legislative actions.
The ECOWAS visit underscores the delicate balance between national sovereignty and regional solidarity in West Africa. As Liberia navigates this dispute, observers warn that prolonged instability could hinder legislative progress and public trust.
For now, all eyes remain on the Supreme Court’s verdict, a pivotal moment that could either ease tensions or deepen the divide within the House of Representatives.
