In a dramatic shift that underscores Liberia’s ongoing legislative turmoil, Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Mulbah has abandoned Speaker J. Fonati Koffa’s camp, declaring allegiance to the rival “Quorum” faction in the House of Representatives. His departure deals another blow to Koffa’s dwindling support base, further complicating efforts to resolve the months-long leadership impasse.
Mulbah’s defection, announced in a passionate public statement Tuesday, cited the need for national unity and functional governance. “We cannot hold the country hostage,” he declared, emphasizing that Liberia’s stalled development, from crumbling roads to under-resourced hospitals, demands urgent legislative action.
His move follows four other lawmakers who recently crossed from Koffa’s minority bloc to the Quorum group, which claims to hold the majority needed to conduct official business. Mulbah framed his decision as a response to constituents’ demands, denying financial incentives. “I don’t need a cent to make this decision,” he insisted, even pledging to forfeit unpaid legislative benefits to support anti-drug initiatives.
Though the Supreme Court recently upheld Koffa’s legitimacy as Speaker after a protracted legal battle, Mulbah argued that Koffa now lacks the confidence of his peers. “There is a clear indication [he] has lost most of his colleagues,” Mulbah stated, alleging that the Speaker’s weakened position has made it impossible to secure a quorum, a critical requirement for passing laws.
The crisis dates back to 2024, when disputes over House leadership paralyzed legislative activities. While Koffa’s camp has framed the struggle as a defense of the rule of law, critics accuse both factions of prioritizing political brinkmanship over governance.
Mulbah’s statement included a direct appeal to President Joseph Boakai: lift suspensions on all lawmakers and facilitate fresh elections to break the deadlock. “This embodies true democracy,” he asserted, urging an end to the infighting that has left Liberia’s legislature in gridlock.
As the political drama unfolds, ordinary Liberians express frustration. “Our leaders are fighting for power while our communities suffer,” lamented Samuel Doe, a market vendor in Monrovia. “When will they remember their promises?”
With Koffa’s camp shrinking and the Quorum faction gaining momentum, pressure mounts for a resolution. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could derail critical legislation, including budget approvals and anti-corruption reforms.
For now, Mulbah’s departure signals a potential tipping point, one that may force Koffa to negotiate or face further isolation. As Liberia watches, the question remains: Will this shift finally unclog the legislative pipeline, or deepen the divide?
