The House of Representatives of the 55th National Legislature, Republic of Liberia is issuing this statement to address recent speculations and misinformation circulating in the media regarding the salaries of suspended Representatives and the alleged questioning of Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon by National Security Advisor, Atty Samuel Kofi Woods.
HoR would like to clarify that the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning was duly notified in writing to halt salary disbursements to all suspended Representatives, following standard procedures for such matters. All salaries and benefits of suspended Representatives are currently under the purview of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning. Additionally, the house has absolutely no authority to exclusively make transfers into and out of the “Compensation Budget Line” as per the Budget Law of 2000.
Contrary to reports, Speaker Richard Koon was not questioned or invited by the National Security Advisor regarding the alleged misappropriation of $8 million in salaries belonging to suspended Representatives. The House of Representatives urges the general public, particularly journalists, to exercise caution and refrain from spreading unverified information that could potentially incite public unrest or undermine the integrity of the legislative body. The 55th National Legislature headed by Speaker Koon remain steadfast in its commitment to transparency and accountability, and will continue to work in the best interest of the Liberian people.
