Ranking Lawmakers Condemn ‘Legislative Mutiny’ -Rep Bility, Sen Snowe Want Sanctity of House Kept Undefiled

MONROVIA – While public outrage mounts against a group of representatives in the 55th National Legislature for planning to remove from office their leader, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, some members from both wings of the First Branch of Government are frowning at the coup, calling for the respect for the sanctity of the Legislature, as THE ANALYST reports.

In various social media posts, legislators are weighing in on the House of Representatives subversionary saga, making their reactions and perspectives known—and strongly.

Two lawmakers who have come out strongly against the House Coup are Nimba County Representative Hassan Musa Bility and Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe.

Writing on his social media page, Bility asserted: “I want to take a moment to acknowledge the feelings and concerns that some of you have regarding the call for the Speaker’s removal. It’s completely understandable that this situation is challenging for many of us. You have the right to express your wishes, as you are the ones who elected him, and I respect that.”

But Bility has a caution. He said: “I urge us all to remember the importance of due process as outlined in the Constitution. This means the resolution must be presented before the plenary and formally read by the chief clerk. The Speaker must be allowed to respond to each point raised, allowing every member who wishes to speak the chance to voice their opinions.

“After that, we must proceed with a headcount vote. If a sufficient number of you—49 members—agree, only then will the Speaker be considered removed, and we can set a date for electing a new Speaker in accordance with our established rules.”

The Nimba lawmaker said he genuinely believe “we can navigate this process while upholding our oath to defend and protect the Constitution”.

“While it is within the rights of the majority to decide on the Speaker’s fate, let’s ensure we do this thoughtfully and respectfully. Our goal should be a smooth and dignified transition,” he added.

“If you are confident in your support, the procedure is on your side. I ask you to approach this situation with integrity and kindness. The Speaker will exit peacefully if we honor the proper channels.”

He emphasized that the decision by some members of the Honorable House of Representatives calling for the removal of the Speaker is a “moment for reflection on our democratic values”.

“If you have the votes, bring them to the chambers’ floors for debate and ballots. Let us uphold the integrity of the people’s house,” he stressed.

“Follow the laws and use your “majority vote” to effect change. We have seen a seamless transition of power in January, setting a positive example. Let us work together to maintain stability in our governance system. As lawmakers, let us embrace our roles and lead by example.”

For the records, he declared, “I am totally against removing the speaker.”

For his part, Senator Snowe who is on a visit to Geneva, Switzerland, put a few but strong words for the alleged coup plotters. He wrote on his social media page: “It is important that the entire opposition community support Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa! Mr. Speaker, I stand with you. The Speakership is more valuable to our democracy than Fifteen Thousand United States Dollars (US$15,000.00)!”