Pressure is mounting on rebellious lawmakers in Liberia as the University of Liberia Student Union (ULSU) has announced its readiness to confront those continuing to stall legislative work at the Capitol. In a press conference held today, ULSU members asserted that the so-called majority lawmakers must return to their original chamber or face the weight of the people’s frustration.
The student union emphasized the need for the 43 lawmakers, who have largely vacated their responsibilities, to return to the House of Representatives, pointing out that their failure to acquire the necessary 49 votes for a motion against Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa is a further indictment of their actions. ULSU called upon other student groups and youth organizations across the country to mobilize and take a stand against the lawmakers this week.
“The rebellious lawmakers need to return under Speaker Koffa’s authority,” stated a ULSU representative. “If they continue to disregard their constitutional obligations, we are prepared to declare their 73 legislative seats vacant. We will take action if they do not return to regular sessions by Thursday.”
The student union’s statements reflect growing frustration among the populace regarding the lawmakers’ failure to fulfill their duties. ULSU has made it clear that if their demands are not met, they will take significant steps to ensure accountability, declaring, “Return to work, or we will capture your seats and declare them vacant.”
As tensions rise, it remains to be seen how lawmakers will respond to this call for action from the youth. The situation highlights the critical need for legislative accountability in Liberia’s governance and underscores the importance of civic engagement in holding elected officials responsible for their actions.