By: Rufus S. Berry II, MBA
A financial expert and anti-corruption activist
Former President of the Liberia Community of Northern California
In recent developments within the Liberian House of Representatives, political tension has emerged over the potential removal of the Speaker. This situation has raised important questions about the respect for legislative procedures, the role of elected officials, and their commitment to the people they serve. It is essential to address this matter with clarity, as the rules governing the removal of the Speaker must be followed, not circumvented.
The Legislative Rules and Their Significance:
According to the rules of the House of Representatives, removing the Speaker requires a two-thirds majority vote from the members. This provision ensures that such a decision carries the weight of significant consensus, preventing arbitrary or politically motivated actions. The same rules stipulate that the House also elects a Deputy Speaker, who serves in the absence of the Speaker, and both officials hold office for the entire term of the Legislature unless removed through the required two-thirds majority.
If the majority bloc cannot secure the necessary votes for removal, the effort is considered a failure under the rules. In such cases, representatives are required to continue with their legislative duties by attending sessions and working for the benefit of the Liberian people.
Failure to Secure Votes Is Not an Excuse for Stalemate:
If those seeking the Speaker’s removal cannot obtain the required votes, it is their responsibility to return to work. Choosing to boycott sessions because the vote failed is a direct violation of the House’s own rules and an abandonment of the duties entrusted to them by the people. Rules are created to provide structure and order, and it is imperative that those who created them abide by them.
The mandate of the House of Representatives is to serve the Liberian people, not to engage in political impasses that stall national progress. Prolonged absences from sessions disrupt the legislative process, delay critical decisions, and undermine public trust. Representatives must remember that their primary obligation is to the nation—not to internal power struggles.
Imagine a scenario where the Constitution clearly states that to win a presidential election, a candidate must secure 50% plus one vote. However, a party decides to boycott the runoff election after receiving 47.8% of the votes in the first round, while the nearest competitor received 35%, with the remaining votes divided among other candidates.
The rules requiring 50% plus one must be followed, regardless of any party’s position or circumstances. These constitutional provisions exist to ensure fairness, legitimacy, and consensus in leadership selection. Rules cannot be rewritten in the middle or at the end of the electoral process to suit any particular interest. Adherence to these principles is essential for maintaining the integrity of the democratic process.
A Call to Uphold the Rules and Serve the People:
In every democracy, adherence to rules and procedures is the foundation of good governance. When elected officials bypass these rules for political gain, it sets a dangerous precedent and erodes the principles of accountability and transparency. If the majority bloc cannot obtain the two-thirds vote required for the Speaker’s removal, the effort must be put to rest, and legislative business must resume without delay.
The Liberian people deserve leaders who respect the rule of law and understand that leadership is not about personal ambition but about serving the public good. It is time for representatives to honor their commitment, return to work, and focus on the pressing issues facing Liberia.
I urge my friend and fellow Fox from the College of West Africa, Representative Prescilla Abram Cooper to return to work and uphold the rules of the House of Representatives, where you were elected less than a year ago. It is essential to honor the mandate entrusted to you by the people and respect the principles of legislative governance.
The rules are clear, and rules are meant to be followed. Anything less would not only be a breach of legislative integrity but also a betrayal of the people’s trust. The business of the nation cannot be held hostage by political infighting. Liberia needs action, not deadlock—our representatives must rise above division and put the country first.
This year, my late father, Rufus S. Berry I, would have turned 99. I am confident that in his era, he and his peers would have handled such matters discreetly, resolving their differences with the wisdom, respect, and dignity befitting true statesmen/women.
Liberia will Rise Again…
