House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has expressed several concerns regarding the ongoing investigation into the fire incident at the Capitol. His remarks came during an appearance for questioning at the Liberia National Police Headquarters in Monrovia on Wednesday, March 6, 2025.
After nearly four hours of questioning, Koffa spoke with journalists, asserting that many of the inquiries directed at him were unrelated to the Capitol fire. “The police’s quarantining was unrelated to the Capitol building’s fire incident,” he stated that he does believe that there are some important elements of the investigation that need more attention and it seems that the investigation had not given the proper attention to people who were there, including Koon. These are critical details that he believes should not be overlooked.
Speaker Koffa further expressed his distrust in the investigation process, citing that the U.S. fire experts involved are close associates of President Joseph Boakai. He raised questions about why a specific lawmaker, who was present at the Capitol just hours before the fire, was not listed as a person of interest in the investigation.
Additionally, Speaker Koffa addressed concerns about the removal of the two chairs used by himself and the Deputy Speaker from the Capitol building prior to the fire. He questioned why the removal of these chairs and the identity of the particular lawmaker were not taken into account during the investigation.
Regarding the findings from the U.S. fire experts, Speaker Koffa emphasized that he would refrain from jumping to conclusions, unlike others who had already formed opinions following the incident. Recent reports suggested that the cause of the Capitol fire was incendiary, echoing earlier claims of arson, which has prompted many political analysts and ordinary Liberians to question the necessity of inviting foreign fire experts—a request that the Unity Party government has downplayed.
Koffa’s presence at the police headquarters created a dramatic scene, with heightened security and restricted movement around the Temple of Justice and the Police Headquarters. Armed riot police established barricades at the entrances, underscoring the tension surrounding the investigation.
Dressed in a dark suit and marked with the sign of the cross on his forehead—a symbol of his Roman Catholic faith—Speaker Koffa was accompanied by CDC Chairman Kanga Kowo and several members of the Minority bloc. Former Maritime Commissioner Eugene Nagbe and CDC stalwart Acaroius were also present, showing solidarity with Koffa, a significant political figure within the main party.
Supporters of Koffa gathered across the street from the Police Headquarters, chanting slogans until the investigation concluded after nearly three hours. Many praised Koffa for his courage and willingness to cooperate with the Liberia National Police, viewing it as a demonstration of his commitment to peace and respect for the rule of law.
