House Extends Suspension of Representatives Cole and Flomo for Defiance

The House of Representatives has extended the suspension of Representatives J. Marvin Cole and Edward P. Flomo for an additional 30 session days due to their defiance of a Plenary directive prohibiting them from the Capitol. In contrast, Rep. Abu B. Kamara’s suspension was lifted for compliance. The total number of suspended lawmakers now stands at 18, mainly from the Minority Bloc.

On March 20, 2025, the Majority Bloc of the House of Representatives extended the suspension of Representatives J. Marvin Cole and Edward P. Flomo for an additional 30 session days. This decision follows their defiance of a directive from Plenary that required them to refrain from entering the Capitol Building. Their original suspension commenced on November 19, 2024, and was set to end on March 18, 2025, but their actions necessitated further disciplinary measures.

Cole and Flomo were repeatedly observed within the Capitol premises, disregarding the terms of their suspension. In contrast, Representative Abu B. Kamara from Montserrado County District 15 had his suspension lifted after he satisfactorily complied with the conditions set by Plenary. This distinction emphasizes the collective disregard for authority exhibited by Cole and Flomo, as their suspension continues until May 2025.

The current situation has resulted in a total of 18 lawmakers being under suspension, predominantly from the Minority Bloc, demonstrating a unified front in support of the embattled Speaker, J. Fonati Koffa. Cole and Flomo’s extended sanctions now place them alongside numerous suspended colleagues, which includes various prominent figures within the House such as Cllr. Fonati Koffa and Yekeh Kolubah, among others.

As the House navigates these suspensions, the actions of Representatives Cole and Flomo clearly illustrate a failure to adhere to governance protocols, highlighting significant challenges within the legislative body. This situation calls for greater accountability among lawmakers and presents ongoing concerns regarding discipline and order within the House.

In summary, the House of Representatives’ decision to extend Representatives Cole and Flomo’s suspension underscores the severity of their defiance against Plenary’s directives. With an additional 30 days of suspension imposed on both lawmakers, their actions contribute to a broader atmosphere of accountability challenges within the legislative body, now comprising 18 suspended members. Further compliance with established governance will be crucial for restoring order and discipline in the House.

Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com