In a significant development, Deputy Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has successfully garnered the support of at least forty lawmakers during a Representative retreat over the weekend. The retreat, which took place on Sunday, November 26, 2023, saw lawmakers from different parties come together to endorse Cllr. Koffa for the role of Speaker in the upcoming 55th legislature.
Cllr. Koffa, a member of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), not only received backing from his own party but also gained support from representatives of the Unity Party. This diverse group of colleagues, including first-time lawmakers, acknowledged Cllr. Koffa’s extensive legislative experience, legal expertise, and decade-long government service as valuable assets for the Speakership role.
Among the notable figures endorsing Deputy Speaker Koffa’s bid are J. Melvin Cole (CDC) of Bong County district three, Edward P. Flomo (CDC) of Montserrado district, August B. Chiewolo (Unity Party) of Lofa County district five, Abu Bannah Kamara (CDC) of Montserrado district 15, Bender Blue Benson (CDC) of Montserrado district 17, and Representative-elect Hon. Michael M. Thomas from Montserrado County district four.
The race for the Speakership of the 55th legislature is now primarily contested by three prominent members of the House of Representatives. Alongside Cllr. J Fonati Koffa, Musa Hassan Bility (CPP) of Nimba County district seven and Richard Nagbe Koon (Unity Party) of Montserrado County district eleven are also vying for the position. This vacant Speakership opportunity arose after Maryland’s Bhofal Chambers was defeated in the October 2023 general presidential and legislative elections, opening doors for new leadership in the lower house.
