The Liberian government has welcomed the Supreme Court’s recent decision that resolved the prolonged leadership dispute in the House of Representatives, calling it a pivotal step toward national reconciliation and renewed legislative progress.
Information Minister Jerolimek Matthew Piah, speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Thursday, said the ruling presents a crucial opportunity for lawmakers to move beyond political divisions and refocus on the country’s core priorities.
“The legislative impasse had severely disrupted key functions and posed a serious risk to public confidence in our democratic institutions,” Piah stated. “It threatened to undo the gains we’ve made in governance and development.”
Piah reaffirmed the Boakai administration’s respect for the separation of powers and urged legislators to embrace the Court’s decision as a foundation for healing and collaboration. He added that the government is actively engaging with key stakeholders, including the National Traditional Council, to promote a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the crisis.
“The path to national progress demands unity and selfless service. Lawmakers swore an oath to serve the nation above all else,” he emphasized.
Piah also praised members of the House who have resumed their duties and expressed optimism that renewed cooperation within the Legislature would help drive forward the government’s ARREST Agenda—its development strategy focused on inclusive growth and sustainability.
The Supreme Court ruling, issued Wednesday, invalidated the election of Representative Richard Koon as Speaker of the House. It further declared all actions taken by Koon and his “majority bloc” as unconstitutional and legally void.
The decision came in response to an amended Bill of Information filed by embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and his allies, who argued that Koon’s faction had defied the Court’s earlier ruling from December 6, 2024, which clarified the proper constitutional procedures for legislative sessions and leadership elections.
“This Court firmly asserts its constitutional authority to interpret the law without fear or favor, regardless of the parties involved,” the justices wrote in their opinion.
Despite the definitive ruling, Koon has refused to step down, deepening the political tension within the lower chamber of the National Legislature.
