Liberia Parliament: Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa Denies Involvement in Capitol Building Fire Amid Political Tensions

Liberia’s House of Representatives Speaker, Jonathan Fonati Koffa, has denied any involvement in the recent fire that engulfed parts of the country’s Capitol building in Monrovia. The fire, which broke out early Wednesday morning, caused significant damage but resulted in no casualties as the building was unoccupied at the time.

The incident occurred just a day after a heated protest against efforts to remove Koffa as speaker, sparking speculation about possible connections. Police authorities, who have launched an investigation, brought Koffa, Representative Frank Saah Foko, and two others in for questioning. A $5,000 reward has also been announced for anyone with information leading to the cause of the fire.

Koffa confirmed he spent nine hours at the police station but clarified he was there to accompany Foko, not as a suspect. Speaking to the BBC, the speaker expressed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, adding that he would submit a written statement regarding a Facebook post he made during the protests—a post that drew police scrutiny.

While he acknowledged the fire could have resulted from several causes, Koffa emphasized he would never condone or engage in acts of violence. “If it was arson, that would have been a horrible thing,” he stated, calling for an impartial, international investigation to uncover the truth.

Koffa suggested that the building’s age and structural issues could have played a role in the fire. He noted that a contractor had previously described the structure as a “time bomb,” raising concerns about its safety.

The fire comes amidst an ongoing power struggle within Liberia’s House of Representatives. A faction of lawmakers claims to have removed and replaced Koffa as speaker, an action another group deems unconstitutional. Despite a Supreme Court ruling on the matter, the dispute remains unresolved, fueling tensions within the legislature.

Thick black smoke billowed over Monrovia as the fire raged, symbolizing not only the physical damage to the Capitol but also the deep divisions within Liberia’s political system. Police Chief Gregory Coleman has emphasized the importance of uncovering the cause of the fire, with all leads, including potential foul play, under investigation.

As the country watches for answers, Koffa maintains his innocence and calls for unity. “This is a time for accountability and transparency,” he said, urging all stakeholders to work towards resolving Liberia’s legislative impasse and rebuilding trust in the nation’s institutions.