Former Liberian Parliament Speaker Charged with Arson Linked to Fire Destruction of House of Representatives
Jonathan Fonati Kofa faces serious allegations including arson in the December fire that destroyed Liberia's lower house of parliament.
Monrovia: Jonathan Fonati Kofa, the former President of the Liberian Parliament, has been charged with arson following a fire that engulfed the House of Representatives in December 2023, according to local police reports.
The blaze occurred just a day after protests erupted in Monrovia over plans to remove Kofa from his position.
In October 2023, dozens of lawmakers voted for Kofa's removal amid allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and conflicts of interest.
The fire that broke out on December 18 destroyed a significant portion of the government building, although there were no injuries reported as the building was unoccupied at the time.
Police have stated that there is "credible evidence" suggesting Kofa was "strategically involved" in the incident.
Additionally, five other lawmakers have been detained in connection with the case, raising concerns regarding the political stability within the Liberian government.
Police Chief Gregory Coleman announced that Kofa faces multiple criminal charges, including arson, criminal endangerment, and attempted murder.
He alluded to evidence indicating that Kofa had utilized his office and staff to orchestrate sabotage efforts since November 2023.
Kofa, along with several other lawmakers, was summoned to the headquarters of the Liberia National Police as "persons of interest" in the investigation, and they were subsequently taken to the Central Prison in Monrovia.
Kofa has previously denied any involvement in the arson incident.
The blaze occurred just a day after protests erupted in Monrovia over plans to remove Kofa from his position.
In October 2023, dozens of lawmakers voted for Kofa's removal amid allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and conflicts of interest.
The fire that broke out on December 18 destroyed a significant portion of the government building, although there were no injuries reported as the building was unoccupied at the time.
Police have stated that there is "credible evidence" suggesting Kofa was "strategically involved" in the incident.
Additionally, five other lawmakers have been detained in connection with the case, raising concerns regarding the political stability within the Liberian government.
Police Chief Gregory Coleman announced that Kofa faces multiple criminal charges, including arson, criminal endangerment, and attempted murder.
He alluded to evidence indicating that Kofa had utilized his office and staff to orchestrate sabotage efforts since November 2023.
Kofa, along with several other lawmakers, was summoned to the headquarters of the Liberia National Police as "persons of interest" in the investigation, and they were subsequently taken to the Central Prison in Monrovia.
Kofa has previously denied any involvement in the arson incident.
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