In a dramatic turn of events, Liberia's ex-Speaker of Parliament, Jonathan Fonati Koffa, has been charged with arson in connection to a catastrophic fire that ravaged the House of Representatives last December. Local law enforcement officials announced the charges amid ongoing investigations that have uncovered "credible links" suggesting Koffa's involvement in the incident.
The fire erupted just a day after Koffa found himself at the center of heated protests in Monrovia, triggered by attempts to remove him from office. Criticized for issues of governance and allegations of corruption, Koffa faced impeachment proceedings that had been voted on by lawmakers in October. Yet, he has consistently denied any involvement in the fire.
Police Chief Gregory Colman detailed a range of charges against Koffa, including arson, criminal mischief, and attempted murder, alleging that he orchestrated sabotage efforts from November 2023 well into the following month. This charge marked a significant escalation in the investigation, which led to Koffa and several other lawmakers being detained at the Monrovia Central Prison following their questioning as "persons of interest."
Notably, the fire on December 18, 2024, effectively obliterated the joint congressional chambers of Liberia, sparing no fatalities as the building was unoccupied at the time. The protests the previous day had culminated in the arrest of demonstrators, including a former aide to ex-President George Weah, with further inquiries leading to prominent representatives like Frank Saah Foko being scrutinized. Foko, in a controversial Facebook post, had indicated an alarming willingness to engage in destructive actions regarding the legislature.
During the probe, American investigators, enlisted to offer their expertise, concluded that the fire was indeed a deliberate act, further complicating Koffa's political vulnerabilities. Following months of strife within the House of Representatives and a newly appointed speaker ruling in Koffa's stead, he resigned amid the growing turmoil.
As Liberia's political landscape continues to unravel, the implications of these allegations against Koffa threaten to prolong the unrest within the nation's governance framework.
