Senator Chea Condemns Alleged Presidential Interference in Supreme Court Ruling

Liberian Lawmaker Warns Against Judicial Overreach

Monrovia – Senator Augustine Chea, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Claims, and Petition, has strongly criticized reports of President Joseph Boakai’s alleged interference in a Supreme Court case involving Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa.

Constitutional Crisis Looms

The controversy centers on a Bill of Information filed by Speaker Koffa challenging the constitutionality of attempts to remove him from office. Senator Chea, representing Sinoe County, asserts that any presidential request to delay the Court’s ruling violates Liberia’s constitutional separation of powers.

“If true, this represents a serious constitutional violation,” Chea stated. “Such interference undermines judicial independence and amounts to obstruction of justice.”

Timeline of Events

The Supreme Court was expected to rule on April 9, 2025, but no decision emerged, fueling speculation about executive influence. This delay coincides with ongoing negotiations between House factions regarding the Speaker’s position.

Legal vs. Political Dimensions

Senator Chea emphasized that while Speaker selection is political, the process remains governed by constitutional law. He cited Articles 65 and 66, which establish the Supreme Court as the final arbiter of constitutional matters.

“Liberia is a nation of laws, not men,” Chea reminded the public. “The Court must maintain its independence from political pressure.”

Broader Implications

The senator warned that yielding to executive pressure would set a dangerous precedent for judicial independence in Liberia. He called for strict adherence to constitutional processes in resolving the House leadership dispute.

This developing story raises critical questions about the balance of power in Liberia’s democracy and the integrity of its judicial system.

Original reporting by Obediah Johnson. For complete coverage, visit the source article.