Upholding Democratic Principles: Rule of Law Caucus Responds to House Violence

January 28, 2025, Members of the Rule of Law Caucus, vehemently condemn the unprecedented and violent assault on Hon. Yekeh Kolubah, a sitting lawmaker, during today’s session of the House of Representatives. This egregious act, reportedly executed by individuals acting under the directives of certain House members, constitutes a severe breach of our democratic principles, the rule of law, and the sanctity of our legislative institution.

The Liberian Constitution guarantees all lawmakers the right to express themselves freely and responsibly within the chambers, without fear of harm or intimidation. This fundamental right underpins our democracy and ensures the legislative independence of our nation. The violent expulsion of Hon. Kolubah from the House floor sets a perilous precedent, marking a blatant violation of constitutional norms and signaling a troubling erosion of our democratic values.

This assault transcends an attack on an individual; it is an affront to the very core of our democratic system. It reflects a disturbing disregard for the rule of law and an alarming willingness to employ violence to suppress dissenting voices.

As the Rule of Law Caucus, we assert unequivocally: that such actions are intolerable and will be met with unwavering resistance.

In response, we commit to the following actions:

 1. We will exhaust all legal avenues to ensure that those responsible for orchestrating and executing this assault—be it members of the House or external actors—are held accountable. The full force of the law must be applied to prevent any recurrence of such violence within our legislative processes.

 2. We will implement measures to protect the sanctity of the House of Representatives, ensuring that every lawmaker can perform their constitutional duties without fear of violence or intimidation.

 3. We call upon all Liberians—civil society, the media, and citizens alike—to stand firm in defending our democracy. Acts of violence and lawlessness have no place in a nation founded on justice, equality, and accountability.

The Rule of Law Caucus stands resolute in defending the Constitution and the democratic principles of Liberia. Today’s assault serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our democracy. We must unite to reject this descent into lawlessness

and reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and the preservation of democratic norms.

To the government and its agents, we remind you that your authority derives from the people, and you are duty-bound to uphold the laws and Constitution of Liberia. Your actions today will define your legacy in the annals of our nation’s history.

Fellow Liberians, this is our moment to demand better. Let us rise together to protect the democratic foundations that so many have sacrificed to establish.