Liberia: RULE OF LAW CAUCUS BOYCOTTS THE UPCOMING STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS (SONA)

PRESS STATEMENT RULE OF LAW CAUCUS BOYCOTTS THE UPCOMING STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS (SONA) The Rule of Law Caucus has decided to boycott the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA). This decision was not made lightly; it reflects our 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. Issued by: Hon. Musa Hassan Bility Chairman, Rule of Law Caucus Representative, District 7, Nimba County