MONROVIA — The House of Representatives has pardoned Bong County District 3 Representative, J. Marvin Cole, following an investigation into his controversial actions before the start of a regular legislative session on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
Rep. Cole, who sparked outrage by occupying the Speaker’s official seat and vehemently criticizing his colleagues for their lack of punctuality, pleaded for mercy through a formal communication to the plenary. In his letter, the lawmaker asserted that his actions were never intended to publicly ridicule members of the House, expressing deep regret and seeking the body’s indulgence for a pardon.
Furthering his appeal, Rep. Cole directly addressed his colleagues during Tuesday’s session, offering a verbal apology and promising that there would be no reoccurrence of the incident.
The controversy began during the June 9 session when Rep. Cole sat in the Speaker’s chair to sharply frown upon the continued lateness of House members. During his impromptu remarks, he went as far as recommending salary cuts for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and regular members of the House, insisting that legislative sessions must strictly commence at 10:00 AM.
Following what was deemed a ridiculous and improper display, Representative Gizzie Kollince formally flagged the misdemeanor to the plenary. Rep. Kollince questioned why Cole chose to occupy the Speaker’s chair to make his assertions and requested a formal inquiry. He further noted that Rep. Cole was well aware that session start times had been adjusted past 10:00 AM due to ongoing overpass bridge construction, which has caused severe traffic congestion for lawmakers commuting to central Monrovia.
Acting on the complaint, the plenary had previously ordered the Committee on Rules, Order, and Administration to investigate the matter and report its findings. However, following Rep. Cole’s formal and face-to-face apologies, the leadership and members of the House voted to drop the matter and grant him a full pardon.