01/05/2025
Speaker J. Fonati Koffa to Resign, Opening Door for New House Leadership
Monrovia, Liberia โ May 1, 2025
In a major political shift, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa has decided to resign from his position as Speaker of the House of Representatives. This decision, reportedly reached in agreement with his team of allied representatives, marks a significant leadership transition within the Liberian Legislature.
Speaker Koffa and his team have formally submitted a resignation proposal to former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, who is acting as a neutral stateswoman with no active political ambitions. The proposal includes a request for Koffa to receive all benefits and salaries earned during his tenure.
The plan also outlines the reinstatement of salaries for previously suspended representatives, who are expected to begin receiving payments starting today, May 1. This gesture is seen as a step toward restoring unity and cooperation within the House.
Former President Johnson-Sirleaf is expected to deliver the resignation letter to the Chief Clerk of the 55th Legislature before the House reconvenes on May 13. Once officially received, the resignation will be placed on the House agenda, creating a vacancy for the speakership.
According to House rules, Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah will oversee the process of electing a new Speaker. This election is expected to occur within 60 days.
By: Gerald T. Morris Jr.
House of Representatives Correspondent