Liberia: Former Speaker Koffa, Lawmakers Face Charges Over Capitol Fire Incident - FrontPageAfrica

MONROVIA – Former House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa and several lawmakers are facing mounting legal scrutiny over the December 2024 fire that severely damaged parts of the Capitol Building. FrontPage Africa has learned that at least two members of the House of Representatives have now been formally charged, and others remain under active investigation.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh | gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Cllr. Koffa and six other lawmakers appeared Friday at the Liberia National Police (LNP) Headquarters on Capitol Hill. This marks their second appearance in connection with the incident, which occurred during a bitter dispute over House leadership.

The lawmakers summoned include:

Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, District #2, Grand Kru County

Frank Saah Foko, District #9, Montserrado County

Abu B. Kamara, District #15, Montserrado County

Dixon Seboe, District #16, Montserrado County

Priscilla Cooper, District #5, Montserrado County

Marvin Cole, District #3, Bong County

Jacob Debee, District #3, Grand Gedeh County

FrontPage Africa has confirmed that Representative Jacob Debee has been formally charged with criminal conspiracy to commit arson. In a further development, Representative Abu B. Kamara has now also been charged with criminal facilitation and conspiracy, allegedly based on a conversation held on December 10, 2024—just days before the Capitol fire incident.

A court-approved writ of search and seizure remains in effect, authorizing investigators to search the lawmakers’ residences and examine their mobile phones for digital evidence related to the alleged conspiracy.

Legal experts note that while the investigation appears to be gaining momentum, constitutional safeguards must remain central to the process. In keeping with the rule of law and the principle of equal treatment, the lawmakers—who are public officials with fixed residences and no record of evasion—should be eligible for release on personal recognizance as they await due process.

Security was visibly intensified at the police headquarters on Thursday. Supporters and political observers gathered as officers blocked off the area to manage crowds. Former Speaker Koffa, in a symbolic gesture, emerged from his SUV holding a toothbrush—an apparent indication of his readiness for any potential detention.

The Capitol fire occurred in the midst of a politically sensitive leadership crisis in the House of Representatives. Several individuals allegedly linked to the then-Minority Bloc were detained following the incident. Law enforcement authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive statement, but sources suggest additional charges may be announced as early as Monday.

As the process unfolds, constitutional analysts and civil society groups continue to emphasize that all persons under investigation are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.