Amidst a continuing crisis in the Liberian House of Representatives, Representative Hon. Sumo K. Mulbah of Montserrado County District #3 has refuted media claims that he is defecting to the Majority Bloc.
According to media sources that appeared online on Wednesday afternoon, the legislator from District #3 made the decision to join the Majority Bloc in order to take part in the fiscal year 2025 budget debate in order to help the public.
Minority members of the House of Representatives were shocked by Rep. Mulbah’s alleged announcement at a market dedication ceremony in Paynesville that he intended to join the Majority Bloc, especially among those who support the beleaguered House Speaker, Cllr. Jonathan Fonati Koffa.
As the proprietor of Multee International School, Rep. Mulbah has been a staunch member and official spokesman of the Koffa Bloc.
During the ceremony, Rep. Mulbah stated that his decision to join the Majority Bloc was intended to contribute his expertise to the national budget for fiscal 2025. He emphasized, “We cannot stop the President’s agenda, and we have to cross over now. It is getting too late regarding the budget issue, and we need to cross over to provide our expertise.”
According to Rep. Mulbah, his intent to cross over was not just for the benefit of his district but also in the interest of the Liberian people to ensure thorough scrutiny of the budget.
“Our crossing over is not only a light for District #3 but aims to serve the needs of the Liberian people. It is time we ensure the 2025 budget is carefully examined to reflect the interests of our people,” Rep. Mulbah added.
However, contrary to the media reports, late Wednesday night, Rep. Mulbah told the New Dawn newspaper that he was not crossing over to the Majority Bloc. He clarified that his earlier comments were merely a teaser and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the embattled Speaker Cllr. Fonati Koffa.
“I am giving them a slow way. I cannot betray my father and teacher; I will never cross over to the so-called Majority Bloc. Let them continue yelling; I am giving them a wide berth,” Rep. Mulbah stated.
Rep. Mulbah emphasized that he has not betrayed Speaker Koffa and that his loyalty remains steadfast. He described his earlier comments as an attempt to provoke the Majority Bloc.
Over recent months, tensions have risen in the Legislature, with a group of lawmakers identifying themselves as the Majority Bloc, seeking to remove the embattled House Speaker Cllr. Jonathan Fonati Koffa. Meanwhile, minority members of the House have stood in defense of Cllr. Koffa, with Rep. Mulbah being a prominent supporter.
The division at Capitol Hill has intensified despite intervention from the judiciary.
