IPNEWS: A leaked WhatsApp audio, allegedly originating from Bong County lawmaker Rep. Marvin Cole, has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s House of Representatives, igniting debate over leadership, institutional integrity, and due process.
In the recording, which was reportedly circulated as a New Year message among lawmakers, Rep. Cole calls on Speaker Richard Koon to temporarily recuse himself amid allegations concerning a purported marital relationship involving a woman said to be his biological sister. Cole contends that, if substantiated, the claims would seriously undermine the credibility of the Legislature and potentially violate Liberian law.
The lawmaker emphasizes that his appeal is not a demand for the Speaker’s removal, but rather a call for recusal to allow for due process and impartial scrutiny. He references what he describes as circulating documents and allegations linked to records in the United States, arguing that the controversy has broader implications for Liberia’s governance and its international standing.
According to Rep. Cole, the matter places all three branches of government—the legislature, executive, and judiciary—under heightened public scrutiny, with possible repercussions for Liberians living abroad. He urges his colleagues to “face reality” and act decisively to preserve the dignity and integrity of the House.
Cole further warns that history will judge the 55th Legislature by how it responds to the unfolding controversy, calling on Speaker Koon to address lingering questions and allow transparency to take precedence.
The development comes less than a year into Speaker Koon’s tenure, following the resignation of former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa amid a quorum crisis that paralyzed legislative business. As the House confronts this latest challenge, public attention remains fixed on how lawmakers will balance truth, due process, and the national interest in the days ahead. By: Andrew B Weah, 0770637216/0886429103, andrewbweah@gmail.com
