Liberia: LACC Summons Nine Lawmakers Over Bribery Allegations in Former Speaker Koffa’s Removal   - FrontPageAfrica

Monrovia – The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has summoned nine lawmakers to appear for questioning in connection with ongoing investigations into allegations of bribery linked to the removal of former House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa.

By Yaway Jaivey

In a communication addressed to House Speaker Richard N. Koon, the LACC requested that the lawmakers be made available to assist with the investigation. The letter, signed by LACC Executive Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe, specified appearance dates for each lawmaker between June 6 and July 4, 2025.

The lawmakers summoned include Representatives Clarence Gahr of Margibi County District 5, James M. Kolleh of Bong County District 2, Michael Thomas of Montserrado County District 4, Eugene J.M. Kollie of Bong County District 5, Zinnah Norman of Gbarpolu County District 1, Marvin Cole of Bong County District 3, Frank Saah Foko of Montserrado County District 9, Alex S. Noah of Sinoe County District 3, and Edward P. Flomo of Montserrado County District 13.

The LACC emphasized its commitment to due process and noted that the schedule was crafted to consider the lawmakers’ legislative obligations. The Commission also expressed flexibility to adjust appointments where necessary.

The investigation follows public allegations made in October 2024 during a political standoff surrounding Koffa’s removal. At the time, Representative Luther Collins of Gbarpolu County alleged that he and other lawmakers received bribes of US$25,000 each to sign a resolution supporting the ouster of the former Speaker. Collins claimed that US$15,000 was paid upfront, with the remaining US$10,000 to be disbursed after the process.

In a widely circulated video, Collins and an aide displayed bundles of cash, asserting that the money was part of a coordinated bribery scheme. The aide referred to the group of lawmakers involved as “rebels” and accused Representative Thomas Fallah and Vice President Jeremiah Koung of organizing the plan. The video further alleged that the motive behind the effort was to block an audit of the House of Representatives initiated by Koffa.

According to the aide, Representative James Kolleh allegedly accepted a portion of the bribe. The video also showed what was claimed to be a list of lawmakers who received money in exchange for supporting Koffa’s removal.

The allegations triggered immediate reactions. Representative Thomas Goshua of Grand Bassa County District 5 publicly withdrew his signature from the resolution, stating that Koffa’s effort to audit the House was being resisted through dishonest means. He emphasized that transparency and accountability were essential to good governance.

Representative Prescilla Abram Cooper of Montserrado County District 5 also rescinded her support. In a social media post, she explained that while she initially believed the petition would follow proper legislative procedure, she later became disillusioned by developments surrounding the process.

“I cannot be part of any hostile takeover, especially with rumors of bribery,” she stated, officially withdrawing her signature and reaffirming her commitment to legislative integrity.

Senator Darius Dillon of Montserrado County called for a full criminal investigation, noting that while lawmakers have the constitutional right to remove a Speaker, such actions must follow due process and be free of corruption.

“When a removal process is marred by alleged bribery, it becomes a criminal matter and must be thoroughly investigated,” Dillon said.

The LACC, in its letter to the House, expressed appreciation for the Legislature’s cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability in public service. It said the scheduled appearances are part of broader efforts to determine the truth behind the allegations.

If confirmed, the bribery claims could result in criminal charges and intensify public scrutiny of the Legislature.

LACC