–AS RULE OF LAW CAUCUS ANNOUNCES BOYCOTTS ALSO
IPNEWS: Margibi County Senator Nathaniel McGilll says adherence to the rule of LAW remains the only hope for the attainment of peace and tranquility in Liberia, for which national Leaders must the lead in upholding its fundamental principles in the protection of the democratic values if the nation must prosper.
Senator McGil stated that political leaders must at all times adhere to the oath of affirmation not only by words but by action and thinks that continued stalemate at the House of REPRESENTATIVE is a classic example of disregard to the rule of law that must not be permitted to continue if the oldest black REPUBLIC must regain its place among community of nations.
The outspoken and this Year’s recipient of the Best Senator Awards by the Independent Probe Newspaper, argued that it would be counterproductive to sit under a gavel of a body whose authority has been questioned by the highest court within the land-the supreme court.
“ Base on the fundamental requirements of democracy which is upholding the rule of LAW as the foundation of our REPUBLIC, and the need to ensure the separation of powers as enshrined in the constitution of Liberia is m, the continued recognition by President Boakai of REPRESENTATIVE RICHARD KOON as speaker when the supreme court has question the legal bases of the action undermines the fabric of our democracy. “
“the constitution of Liberia provides for only one speaker and at no time there can be two speakers. How we going to Annual message-a constitutional requirement under our constitution yet still be in violation with a speaker that comes to being outside the constitutional requirements?”
“ You can be assured we will lobby with other like minds FOR A Boycott of the President’s annual message as an initial step to protecting the constitution and the fabric of our democracy.” Senator McGill statetd,
In a related development, ‘The Rule of Law Caucus’ has also announced a decision to boycott the upcoming Annual Message.
The ‘The Rule of Law Caucus’ in a statement stated that this decision was not made lightly; it reflects their deep concerns over the ongoing erosion of legislative independence and the increasing interference of the Executive branch in the affairs of the Legislature.
“The Executive’s recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon as Speaker, despite the legitimate Speaker still being in office, is a blatant violation of democratic principles and legislative autonomy. This unprecedented action not only strips the legitimate Speaker of his authority and dignity but also humiliates the Legislature as an institution. Attending the SONA under such circumstances would amount to tacit approval of this illegitimacy—a position we categorically reject.”
“Our concerns are further heightened by the recent aggression against members of the Rule of Law Caucus by law enforcement officers. In addition, we will resist, in the court of law, any attempt to fabricate evidence against our colleagues as a means to quell our resistance to the erosion of the rule of law. However, we remain committed to an impartial investigation of this matter and will continue to cooperate with the authorities during these investigations.
By boycotting the SONA, we are sending a resolute message: we will not acknowledge the authority of a Speaker who has not been legitimately elected. The matter is currently under judicial review, and any recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon prior to a final court determination undermines both the rule of law and the democratic process.”
“As lawmakers, our constitutional duty is to uphold the sanctity of the Legislature. Participating in an event organized by an Executive that flagrantly disregards legislative independence would compromise our integrity and perpetuate this illegality. We call on members of the Senate and other lawmakers who share our concerns to join us in this principled stand. Together, we must reject any actions that degrade our institutions, erode the rule of law, and threaten Liberia’s democracy.”
“The Rule of Law Caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, legislative independence, and democratic governance. This boycott is not an act of defiance but a firm and principled stand against actions that threaten the very foundation of our democracy.” The Rule of Law Caucus statement read.
Meanwhile, ten other senators from Grand Bassa, Sinoe, Maryland, RIVER Gee, Grand Kru, Grand Cape Mount and Marigibi counties are expected to join the call for boycott.
Names of the Senators expected to join the planned boycott will be published shortly.
