Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberian Senate has formally acknowledged a complaint from the House of Representatives concerning public comments made by Gbarpolu County Senator, Hon. Amara Konneh, reaffirming its commitment to legislative comity and mutual respect between the two chambers.
The Senate’s response, communicated through its Secretary and read during a House leadership meeting on Monday, underscored the Upper Chamber’s adherence to principles of legislative propriety and the broader national interest. It further disclosed that Senator Konneh has been engaged on the matter and provided with appropriate advisement in line with internal Senate procedures.
The development follows a formal communication from the House of Representatives addressed to Senate Pro-Tempore Hon. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, raising concerns over statements made by Senator Konneh on his official Facebook platform. The remarks were in reference to the House’s recent decision to expel Montserrado County Electoral District #10 Representative, Hon. Yekeh Y. Kolubah.
According to the House, it took strong exception to the Senator’s characterization of its action, particularly his assertion that the expulsion represented “yet more theater in the Chambers of the House of Representatives that risk grinding the whole system of Government to a halt,” and his further description of the proceedings as “not politics, it is madness.”
The House described the comments as “deeply concerning and regrettable,” arguing that such statements undermine the integrity, independence, and authority of the Legislature as a co-equal branch of government. It maintained that the decision to expel Representative Kolubah was carried out in accordance with the Constitution and the Standing Rules of the House.
While recognizing the right of lawmakers to express differing opinions, the House emphasized the need for restraint and responsibility in public discourse, particularly on issues involving legislative actions. It warned that statements of such nature risk eroding public trust and fueling unnecessary tensions between the Senate and the House.
In its appeal, the House urged Senate leadership to take due note of the matter and advise Senator Konneh to uphold the principles of inter-legislative respect and cooperation.
Despite the disagreement, both chambers have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a constructive working relationship in the interest of good governance and national development.
