**Jonathan Fonati Koffa, former Speaker of Liberia's House of Representatives, has been charged with arson following a devastating fire at the Capitol, which coincided with his political turmoil and protests against him.**
**Former Liberian Speaker Faces Arson Charges Linked to Capitol Blaze**
**Former Liberian Speaker Faces Arson Charges Linked to Capitol Blaze**
**Charges come in the wake of political unrest surrounding Jonathan Fonati Koffa's impeachment attempts.**
Liberia's former Speaker of the House, Jonathan Fonati Koffa, has been charged with arson after a fire obliterated the nation's legislative chambers last December, just a day after contentious protests erupted over his potential removal from office. The local police, who have been investigating the incident, indicated they found "credible links" suggesting Koffa was "strategically involved" in the blaze that led to the destruction of the House of Representatives.
Last October, Koffa faced significant opposition, with multiple lawmakers seeking his impeachment due to allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and conflicts of interest in his political role. He has denied any involvement in the fire incident itself. Following the charges, Koffa was one of several lawmakers detained, which included five individuals connected to the case. The police chief, Gregory Colman, stated that Koffa utilized his office to coordinate sabotage efforts as early as November 2023.
On the day of the fire on December 18, 2024, no officials were present in the building. Tensions had escalated on the eve of the blaze, with activists demonstrating against Koffa's leadership. Notably, an aide of former President George Weah was also arrested during the protests. Representative Frank Saah Foko, a notable critic, allegedly posted on social media a menacing remark that suggested violent intent regarding the Parliament.
US independent investigators who participated in the probe affirmed that the fire was intentionally set, intensifying scrutiny on Koffa and his supporters. The long-standing power struggle within Liberia's legislative body has seen its fair share of controversy. Although an impeachment motion against Koffa did not fulfill the necessary two-thirds majority for success, those calling for his removal appointed a new speaker unilaterally.
In a twist of fate amid ongoing political strife, Koffa resigned as speaker just last month, after a protracted deadlock marked by accusations and counter-accusations. The situation continues to unfold in a country where political allegiance and survival remain intricately intertwined.
