Former Liberian Speaker Faces Arson Charges Following Parliament Fire

Local police have charged ex-speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa with arson and additional offenses related to a catastrophic fire at Liberia's Capitol. The blaze, occurring after heated protests over his potential impeachment, has led to widespread scrutiny and multiple arrests among lawmakers.

Liberia's former speaker of the House of Representatives, Jonathan Fonati Koffa, has been formally charged with arson in connection to a disastrous fire that engulfed the parliament building last December. This significant development was confirmed by local police, who emphasized that Koffa's involvement was deemed "strategic" and highlighted several offenses against him.

The fire erupted shortly after protests in Monrovia, triggered by Koffa's potential removal from office over claims of corruption and mismanagement. Tensions ran high as dozens of lawmakers attempted to impeach him. In light of the events following the fire, police indicated there were credible links suggesting Koffa’s direct involvement and collaboration in the alleged sabotage.

Additionally, authorities have detained five other legislators as part of the ongoing investigation. Police Chief Gregory Colman indicated that Koffa had coordinated efforts to undermine opposition even before the fire, utilizing governmental resources in his agenda.

On Saturday, Koffa and three other current House members were taken to Monrovia Central Prison following their questioning as prominent figures in this alarming case. The fire, which consumed the entire joint chambers of Liberia’s legislature, occurred when the building was unoccupied. Notably, the unrest on the eve of the incident resulted in numerous arrests, including that of a former aide to ex-President George Weah.

During the inquiry, a prominent House member, Frank Saah Foko, reportedly released a provocative video suggesting that if necessary, the chambers would be set ablaze. Findings from independent U.S. investigators have confirmed that the inferno was deliberately ignited, further complicating an already tumultuous political landscape marked by ongoing power struggles within Liberia's governance.

Although a movement to impeach Koffa failed to achieve the necessary majority, those lawmakers pushing for his ousting proceeded to appoint a speaker unilaterally. In a further twist, Koffa resigned from his position last month amid protracted political stalemate, highlighting the instability surrounding Liberia’s legislative body.