Press release by: Rule of Law Caucus
The Rule of Law Caucus has threatened a boycott action against President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s upcoming State Of Nation Address (SONA).
The address which marks Boakai’s second report on the state of Liberia is expected to be held at the Capitol Building Gounds, though the joint chamber was recently destroyed by fire.
This decision according to a release under the signature of the Chairman of the Rule of Law Caucus and Nimba County District 7 Representative, Musa Hassan Bility, reflects the Rule of Law Caucus’ deep concerns over the ongoing erosion of legislative independence and the increasing interference of the Executive branch in the affairs of the Legislature.
The Rule of Law Caucus in the release indicated that the Executive’s recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon as Speaker, despite the legitimate Speaker still being in office, is a blatant violation of democratic principles and legislative autonomy.
According to the body, this unprecedented action does not only strip the legitimate Speaker of his authority and dignity, but also humiliates the Legislature as an institution.
The Rule of Law Caucus explained that attending the SONA under such circumstances would amount to tacit approval of this illegitimacy, a position it categorically rejects.
“Our concerns are further heightened by the recent aggression against members of the Rule of Law Caucus by law enforcement officers.
In addition, we will resist, in the court of law, any attempt to fabricate evidence against our colleagues as a mean to quell our resistance to the erosion of the rule of law” the group states.
The Caucus continued: “However, we remain committed to an impartial investigation of this matter and will continue to cooperate with the authorities during these investigations”.
The Rule of Law Caucus narrated that by boycotting the SONA, it is sending a resolute message noting that it will not acknowledge the authority of a Speaker who has not been legitimately elected.
The group in the release averred that the matter is currently under judicial review, and any recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon prior to a final court determination undermines both the rule of law and the democratic process.
“As lawmakers, our constitutional duty is to uphold the sanctity of the Legislature.
Participating in an event organized by an Executive that flagrantly disregards legislative independence would compromise our integrity and perpetuate this illegality” the release indicates.
The group called on members of the Senate and other lawmakers who share their concerns to join them in this principled stand.
“Together, we must reject any action that degrades our institutions, erodes the rule of law, and threatens Liberia’s democracy” the group said.
The Rule of Law Caucus intoned that it remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, legislative independence, and democratic governance. This boycott is not an act of defiance but a firm and principled stand against actions that threaten the very foundation of our democracy.
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