Koffa Challenges Fire Rescue Alliance’s Findings, Calls Investigation ‘Unfair’”

Monrovia, Liberia – Controversy continues to swirl around the fire that ravaged the Capitol Building in December 2024, with House Speaker Fonati Koffa now questioning the legitimacy of an investigation conducted by the US-based Fire Rescue Alliance (FRA).

The Fire Rescue Alliance, which arrived in Liberia last weekend, claimed in its findings that the Capitol blaze was intentionally set, with an accelerant used to ignite the fire. However, Speaker Koffa has strongly disputed these conclusions, calling them “Ultra Vires,” echoing the terminology previously used by the Supreme Court when it was asked to provide a judicial interpretation over conflicting claims within the House.

Speaking to reporters after his questioning at the Liberia National Police (LNP) headquarters on Wednesday, Speaker Koffa criticized the FRA’s investigation process, accusing it of being biased and based on personal friendships rather than thorough and impartial inquiry.

“I believe this investigation was not conducted fairly and was influenced by personal relationships rather than facts,” Koffa said. “We need a transparent investigation that serves the interests of justice, not one driven by external influences.”

The police investigation into the Capitol fire, which has been ongoing since the incident in December, named several individuals, including Speaker Koffa, as persons of interest. Despite being summoned for questioning, Koffa reiterated his willingness to cooperate fully with authorities and reiterated his statement that he is available for questioning at any time.

During his visit to the LNP headquarters, Speaker Koffa also addressed a public display of faith, acknowledging the observance of Ash Wednesday by Catholic devotees, as evidenced by the cross on his forehead.

In a revealing comment, Koffa disclosed that one lawmaker had left the Capitol Building prior to the outbreak of the fire and hinted that the individual might know more about the incident. “One of my colleagues left the building before the fire started. He knows who he is, and I trust the police will act on all leads,” Koffa stated, though he refrained from naming the lawmaker involved.

As investigations continue, all eyes are on the LNP and the Fire Rescue Alliance to provide clarity and resolution to the ongoing crisis at the Capitol.