—- Condemns Government’s Criminalization of Senator Snowe’s Comments
IPNEWS: Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has expressed strong concern over the Liberian government’s recent handling of remarks allegedly made by Senator Edwin Snowe, warning that such actions threatens the democratic foundation of thecountry.
In a statement, issued in Monrovia, Former Speaker. Koffa criticized the government’s decision to paraphrase Senator Snowe’s comment and subsequently frame it as a criminal offense.
“The government’s attempt to paraphrase Senator Snowe’s comment, and then criminalize it, undermines our democracy and has a chilling effect on the opposition in a manner unhealthy for our democracy,” Koffa said.
The controversy began after Senator Snowe made remarks believed to be critical of the current administration. In response, the Ministry of Information issued a press release interpreting his statement as inflammatory and potentially seditious—language that many, including Rep. Koffa, view as an overreach and a threat to free speech.
Koffa, who serves as a leading member of the House of Representatives, called on the Ministry of Information to immediately retract the press release, asserting that such a move would help de-escalate tensions and reaffirm the government’s commitment to democratic norms.
“In a democracy, political dissent and robust debate are not just tolerated—they are essential,” Koffa added. “Attempting to weaponize state instruments against opposing voices sends the wrong message both to Liberians and to our international partners.”
The situation has sparked debate across Liberia’s political landscape, with civil society organizations and opposition parties expressing solidarity with Senator Snowe. Many are calling for increased protections for political speech and an end to what they describe as a growing trend of political intimidation.
As Liberia navigates its complex political climate, voices like Rep. Koffa’s serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between authority and accountability. Whether the Ministry of Information will heed the call to retract its statement remains to be seen.
