Liberia: ‘Group of Confused People’ - EFFL Commander-in-Chief Gonquoi Blasts Supreme Court over ‘Ambiguous’ Ruling on House Impasse - FrontPageAfrica

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Monrovia – The Commander-in-Chief (CIC) of the Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia (EFFL), Emmanuel D. Gonquoi, has unleashed sharp criticism against the Supreme Court of Liberia, referring to the justices as a “group of confused people.”

His remarks follow what he perceives as the court’s failure to take decisive action in addressing the ongoing crisis within the 55th House of Representatives. The impasse, marked by disputes over leadership and procedural matters, has deepened political divisions in the legislative body.

On December 6, the Supreme Court ruled into the House impasse. The dispute centers on a petition filed by Speaker J. Fonati Koffa requesting the Supreme Court to nullify the Majority Bloc’s sessions, and the suspension of three lawmakers (Reps. Abu Bana Kamara, Edward Flomo, and Marvin Cole), the restructuring of House committees, and the seizure of the draft 2025 national budget.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court stated: “Any sittings or actions by members of the Legislature not in conformity with the intent of Articles 33 and 49 of the Constitution are ultra vires. Hence, Members of the House of Representatives are to conduct themselves accordingly.” This decision sparked mixed reactions, with both factions claiming victory.

Gonquoi argued that the Supreme Court’s perceived indecision has worsened the turmoil, leaving room for further complications. He expressed concern that this judicial ambiguity has forced the Executive Branch to align with the majority bloc in adherence to Article 33 of the 1986 Constitution, which stipulates the quorum necessary for legislative decisions.

The EFFL leader warned that if the impasse is not swiftly resolved, it could lead to a chaotic State of the Nation Address (SONA) in January 2025. He emphasized the potential for the crisis to overshadow critical national priorities.

Despite his criticisms, Gonquoi urged both factions within the House of Representatives to set aside their differences and engage in reconciliation for the greater good of Liberia. “It is time for the representatives to put their political disagreements aside and focus on serving the people,” he said.

The ongoing political stalemate has drawn widespread concern, with calls from civil society and international partners for a swift resolution to restore normalcy in the House of Representatives. Gonquoi’s statements are likely to add to the mounting pressure on both the legislative and judicial branches to find a lasting solution.