Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, has respectfully declined a distinguished honor from the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), humbly stating that he does not deem himself worthy of the recognition at this time.
The LCC had extended an invitation to Koffa to receive its prestigious “Advocate for Justice and the Rule of Law” award during the upcoming Bishop George D. Brown Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, slated for Friday, May 30, 2025. The ceremony is part of the Council’s 35th General Assembly, which is currently underway at the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary campus in Paynesville.
When contacted by The Liberian Investigator, the Grand Kru County lawmaker expressed gratitude for the recognition but firmly declined the award.
“I do not deem myself worthy of such an award,” Koffa said, offering no further comment.
Koffa’s decision not to accept the honor has drawn public attention, with some viewing it as an act of humility and reflection, particularly given his prominent role in the Legislature over the years.
Despite the former Speaker’s declination, the Liberia Council of Churches is moving forward with its awards ceremony. The Council will honor current House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon with a “Statesmanship Award” in recognition of his role in fostering peace, promoting good governance, and contributing to national development during his current tenure.
Speaker Koon, who is presently on an official assignment in Sierra Leone, will be represented at the ceremony by Montserrado County District #11 Representative James Kolleh and Nimba County Representative Johnson S.N. Williams. The House of Representatives officially acknowledged the Council’s communication during Thursday’s session and approved the delegation, as directed by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah.
The Bishop George D. Brown Hall of Fame was inaugurated in 2023 to recognize Liberians who have rendered distinguished service to the church, the state, and society. The honor is named after the Council’s founding President, Bishop George D. Brown, and has since become a significant aspect of the LCC’s annual assembly.
This year’s General Assembly is being held under the theme: “Reconciliation: Acknowledging the Past, Accepting the Present, and Adjusting for the Future with True Healing,” inspired by Ephesians 5:14–16. More than 250 delegates, including clergy, women, youth leaders, and regional church representatives, are participating in the four-day event. Discussions are centered on Liberia’s ongoing journey of post-conflict healing, institutional reform, and fostering unity across political and religious lines.
In a related spiritual observance, the Council has invited lawmakers and the broader public to a National Intercessory Prayer Service, scheduled for Saturday, May 31, at 2:00 p.m. at the Seminary campus. The service aims to honor national leaders for their efforts in restoring order and dignity to the Legislature amid a challenging transitional period.
“The Council counts on your continued support to the church and your understanding of the past, present, and future context of how Liberia can experience true healing,” the Council’s official communication noted.
As the General Assembly continues, the LCC’s message of reconciliation and integrity remains central, reminding Liberians, from lawmakers to ordinary citizens, that the path to national renewal begins with reflection, humility, and collective commitment.
Source: The Liberian Investigator
