The House of Representatives has extended the suspensions of Representatives Cole and Flomo by an additional 30 days following their defiance of a directive to remain away from the Capitol. Their original suspension ended on March 18, 2025. In contrast, Representative Kamara’s suspension was lifted due to compliance. Currently, 18 lawmakers are suspended, mainly from the Minority Bloc, amid ongoing conflicts within the House.
On March 20, 2025, the Majority Bloc in the House of Representatives announced the extension of the suspensions of Representatives J. Marvin Cole and Edward P. Flomo for an additional 30 session days. This decision follows their defiance of a directive to refrain from entering the Capitol Building, which had commenced with their initial suspension on November 19, 2024, and concluded on March 18, 2025.
The leadership cited that the actions of Cole and Flomo constituted disrespect towards the legislative body’s decisions. Despite their initial suspension having ended, both representatives were observed repeatedly within the Capitol premises, thereby violating the stipulated terms. In contrast, Representative Abu B. Kamara from Montserrado County District 15 had his suspension lifted due to compliance with its conditions.
The House expressed that Kamara’s adherence highlighted the continuous disregard exhibited by Cole and Flomo towards Plenary’s instructions. Their suspension now lasts until May 2025, increasing the tally of suspended legislators to 18, all from the Minority Bloc in support of the controversial Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. The suspensions encompass a growing number of lawmakers, including notable figures such as Cllr. Fonati Koffa and several others who have faced similar punitive measures.
The decision to extend the suspensions of Representatives Cole and Flomo underscores the House’s commitment to enforcing its directives. As their disregard for rules culminated in a further 30-day suspension, this incident has resulted in a total of 18 suspended lawmakers within the House, reflecting ongoing tensions and divisions among its members.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
