In the lead-up to the national budget presentation to the National Legislature by President Joseph N. Boakai, sources have revealed escalating tensions within the government as efforts intensify to challenge Speaker Fonati Koffa’s position. The Executive Branch is allegedly aiding the majority bloc in the divided House of Representatives to ensure the rebellious faction acquires the necessary 49 votes to oust the embattled Speaker. This claim has not been readily verified.
Currently, the rebellious faction is only five votes shy of reaching the critical threshold needed to remove Koffa from his leadership role. For over three weeks, the majority bloc has been actively strategizing to unseat the Speaker, while Koffa’s faction has struggled to secure the 37 votes required for the House to conduct its business, leaving the legislature in a state of disarray.
With the President set to present the national budget imminently, sources indicate a reluctance from the executive branch to present the budget to Speaker Koffa. In response, intense lobbying efforts have been launched to persuade lawmakers from Koffa’s faction to cross over to the rebel side. Allegations have surfaced that lawmakers willing to switch allegiance could receive up to $150,000 in exchange for their support, aimed at reaching the magic number of 49 votes.
Lobbying activities are reportedly intensifying as the deadline approaches, with the goal of finalizing any deals before Tuesday. Last week, the President postponed the budget presentation, citing unfinished work as the reason. However, insiders suggest this may have been a strategic move reflecting the executive’s unwillingness to present to Speaker Koffa amid the ongoing political crisis.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on the House of Representatives, where the outcome of these political maneuvers could significantly impact the upcoming budget presentation and the future of Speaker Fonati Koffa’s leadership.
