Former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, along with co-defendants Representatives Dixon Seboe, Abu Kamara, and Jacob Debee, has been released from the Monrovia Central Prison following several days in detention tied to the ongoing Capitol Building arson investigation.
Their release comes after the Monrovia City Court accepted a criminal appearance bond totaling US$440,000 for all four defendants. The bond was approved by Stipendiary Magistrate Ben Barco, allowing the lawmakers to be freed from custody while awaiting trial.
According to court documents, the bond was secured by sureties Jonda Janet Koffa and Marjan Mona Koffa, who committed to ensuring the defendants’ appearance at all future court proceedings.
The lawmakers, key figures in the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), are facing multiple charges filed by the Republic of Liberia through the Liberia National Police. The charges include arson, criminal mischief, theft of property, menacing, and terroristic threats, all stemming from a dramatic incident at the Capitol Building last month.
Their detention had sparked a wave of political tension, particularly following the earlier release of Rep. Prescilla Cooper of the ruling Unity Party, raising accusations of selective justice. Authorities claimed Cooper was released due to limited space at the prison, a justification that drew public criticism and demands for consistency in legal treatment.
As the case moves forward, all eyes remain on the judiciary to determine whether the proceedings will maintain fairness and transparency amid a charged political atmosphere.
