Monrovia, Liberia – Judge George Smith of the Sixth Judicial Circuit Civil Law Court has revealed threats towards his life amidst an ongoing case difficult the management of the House of Representatives. Judge Smith claimed that unknown people have threatened to burn his home and hurt him if he proceeds with the case.
By Jackie Dennis, Contributing Writer
Legal Arguments
The case, introduced by a bunch of lawmakers supporting embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, challenges the removing of Koffa as Speaker and the next election of Representative Richard Nagbe Koon. The petitioners argue that Koon is unlawfully serving as Speaker, contending that Koffa’s removing violated constitutional and procedural guidelines.
They allege that the method violated Article 49 of the Constitution, which outlines procedures for electing and eradicating the Speaker. The group has urged the courtroom to nullify Koon’s actions and reinstate Koffa as Speaker.
Lawyers representing Rep. Koon and the Majority Bloc have filed a movement to dismiss the case, citing a previous Supreme Court ruling on the same matter. According to their counsel, Cllr. Varney Sherman, reopening the case would undermine the authority of the Supreme Court, which serves as the ultimate arbiter of justice.
Just vows to proceed regardless of threats
Despite the threats, Judge Smith has vowed to stay neutral, emphasizing that intimidation can’t deter judges from fulfilling their constitutional duties. He acknowledged While threats to a decide’s life are regarding, they can’t function grounds to droop proceedings, as doing so would undermine the judiciary’s constitutional mandate.
Just Smith has set Monday, January 27 to rule whether or not he’ll proceed or cease adjudicating the case.
Majority Bloc Lawmakers Threaten Impeachment
Prior to the courtroom proceedings, the scenario escalated on Tuesday throughout session as Majority Bloc lawmakers referred to as for Judge Smith’s impeachment, accusing him of interfering in legislative affairs. “This is gross disrespect to the legislature and its internal processes,” one legislator remarked. Rep. Jeremiah Sokan (District #1, Grand Gedeh County) warned that Judge Smith might face impeachment if he continues to “meddle in political activities.”