Fonati Koffa, the Speaker of Liberia’s House of Representatives, has officially resigned from his position after weeks of legislative gridlock and increasing political pressure.
His resignation follows concerns about his inability to secure a quorum necessary to conduct official legislative business.
Koffa, who had been locked in a protracted struggle to maintain control and authority within the House, described his departure as a difficult but necessary decision. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,” he quoted from 2 Timothy 4:7, on his Facebook page on Monday.
A group of legislators has been opposing the beleaguered Speaker since early April, with some even boycotting sessions, which effectively paralyzed House operations. Koffa attempted to mobilize support and reach agreements, but he was unable to secure enough votes to restore order and credibility under his leadership.
His departure, according to political analysts, signals a dramatic shift in the parliamentary landscape and paves the way for a fierce contest for the speakership in the upcoming weeks.
It is worth noting that since October of last year, the majority of Members of the House of Representatives vowed not to serve under Speaker Koffa’s leadership, citing concerns over corruption, poor leadership style, and conflicts of interest.
Although he went to the Supreme Court and won an attempt to remove him, he has faced ongoing pressure to step down as Speaker due to the loss of confidence from his colleagues.
