Liberia: Koon-Led House Backs LACC Bribery Probe Amid Fears of Political Whitewash

Capitol Hill — The House of Representatives has approved a corruption probe. This investigation relates to the scandal that led to former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa's removal.

Speaker Richard Koon and his group took control amid bribery allegations. They are now cooperating with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). This raises questions about their intentions—are they seeking accountability or trying to clear their names?

On Thursday, the House allowed nine lawmakers to be questioned by the LACC. Most of these lawmakers belong to the current majority bloc. This decision comes after months of silence regarding bribes offered for Koffa's ouster in October 2024.

Rep. Ivar K. Jones from Margibi County District #2 filed the motion for the probe. He emphasized the need for due process, stating, "We must allow our colleagues to go and clear their names." Critics argue that this timing is suspicious since Koon has solidified his power.

Among those summoned are Rep. Clarence Gahr and Rep. James Kollie. Gahr allegedly helped distribute bribes, while Kollie was accused of taking kickbacks from cash distributions. Other lawmakers on the list include Michael M. Thomas, Eugene JM. Kollie, Zinnah Normah, Marvin Cole, Frank Saah Foko, Alex Noah, and Edward P. Flomo.

The questioning sessions will occur between June 6 and July 4, 2025.

From Accused to In Control

The bribery allegations surfaced in late 2024 when Rep. Luther Collins admitted he was promised $25,000 for supporting Koffa's removal vote. He claimed he received an initial $15,000 payment and displayed it in a viral video.

Another video appeared to show Rep. Gahr negotiating a payout: $15,000 upfront and another $10,000 after Koffa's removal. Both Gahr and Kollie were mentioned in Collins' confession.

Following these revelations, the LACC began its investigation in October 2024. Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra Zoe stated her team was collecting evidence on both sources and recipients of bribe money but faced political challenges as Koffa's opponents gained influence.

The majority bloc successfully removed Koffa on May 13, 2025; Richard Koon became Speaker shortly afterward.

A Political Plot Disguised as Leadership Change?

Koffa’s supporters argue that his removal stemmed from his reform efforts rather than poor leadership. His push for a full audit of House finances threatened high-ranking lawmakers' interests.

Koffa also tightened control over budget processes to prevent misuse by lawmakers for personal gain.

Some lawmakers who initially supported removing Koffa later distanced themselves from that decision due to bribery allegations. Rep. Priscilla Cooper withdrew her support citing dishonorable conduct and rumors of bribery.

Others like Reps. Thomas Goshua and Rugie Yatu Barry condemned alleged corruption while calling for accountability but later rejoined efforts against Koffa’s leadership.

Goshua noted that removing Koffa was largely due to his audit initiative aimed at good governance.

Rep Barry stated she never expected money for her support; her concerns were procedural instead of financial.

A Delayed but Crucial Test for LACC

LACC Chair Cllr. Alexandra Zoe affirmed her authority under Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of its Act to investigate all corruption acts regardless of political affiliation.
She assured that hearings would focus on both recipients and sources of alleged bribes.
However, doubts linger about the probe’s credibility.
"This is a classic case of the fox guarding the henhouse," said one civil society advocate anonymously.
"You can't expect a thorough investigation when those accused lead the institution being probed."