Liberia: Majority Bloc Member Austin Taylor Breaks Ranks, Pledges to Stand with Rule of Law - FrontPageAfrica

Monrovia — Amid ongoing tensions between the Supreme Court and the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives, Rep. Austin B. Taylor, a member of the bloc, has publicly declared his commitment to the rule of law, signaling a possible break in unity within the embattled group.

By Selma Lomax selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com

In a statement posted Friday, Taylor emphasized that “good governance is the side that I take,” stressing the importance of respect for the judiciary, justice, integrity, and accountability in Liberia’s democratic process. 

His remarks come just days after the Supreme Court reaffirmed J. Fonati Koffa as the legitimate Speaker of the House — a ruling rejected by the Majority Bloc, which subsequently filed a petition for reargument.

While Taylor did not explicitly endorse the Court’s decision, his strong remarks in support of the rule of law have raised eyebrows within political circles. “The negative trend of yesteryears will not be tolerated in today’s public space,” he stated, referencing past governance failures and calling for transparency and economic dignity for all Liberians.

Taylor’s comments appear to contrast with the Majority Bloc’s recent defiance of the Court’s mandate and could indicate a growing internal divide as legal and political pressure mounts. 

His statement comes as President Joseph Boakai faces mounting opposition criticism for aligning with the Majority Bloc and expressing intent to work with what he called a “functioning quorum” of lawmakers.

Taylor concluded his message with a call to action: “Liberians must be given the opportunity to finally break free from the shackles of poverty,” underscoring his focus on justice and good governance over partisan loyalty.