Vandala Patrick Describes Capitol Hill Crisis
Monrovia, Liberia – Vandala Patrick, the executive director of Campaigners for Change International, has called the current legislative situation a “constitutional coup d’e-tat.”
Vandala stated in a speech on Thursday, October 31, 2024, in Monrovia noting that certain members of the 55th Legislature have violated the constitution, making the situation appear to be a coup d’e-tat.
“As a right-winger who has defended the Republic of Liberia’s constitution for the last fifteen years, I think it’s time to steer this nation in the right direction.”
He asserted that political parties are subordinate to the action taken by all Liberians to preserve the dignity of the Constitution.
“The House of Representatives shall elect one every six years as a Speaker who shall be the presiding officer of that body, the Deputy Speaker, and such other officers as ensnare in the Liberian Constitution,” stated Vandala, citing article 9 of the constitution.
He explained that the House of Representatives’ dilemma is preventing the nation from moving in the correct direction and that Liberians are obligated to uphold the rule of law.
According to a Right Advocate, the attempt by certain politicians to violate the Constitution is a clear indication that Liberia has yet to fully heal from the war.
Additionally, he stated that “all rules adopted by the Legislature shall conform to the requirement of due process of law laid down in the constitution,” as stated in article 38 of the document.
He asserts that in order to remove a sitting speaker, it must be against Article 49 of the Liberian Constitution, Article 38, and the legislative norms.
In his defense, he acknowledged that the accusations made against the speaker are accurate adding that Liberians should support all of the legislators who have taken the initiative to make sure the speaker abides by their laws.
Vandala said some legislators have resorted to breaking the law, which is a disgrace. He encouraged the lawmakers to respect the rule law and act in line with the constitution.
On Monday, November 3, 2024, Vandala vowed to hold a large-scale demonstration on Capitol Hill if lawmakers disobey the court’s decision.
He declared, “The House of Representatives has the right to continue as they are, but we will declare a protest and march to the capitol if the Supreme Court rules that their sitting is unlawful.”
Reported by: Prince Saah
Contact: +231778239813
Email: saahprince119@gmail.com
