Liberian Senate Prioritizes Former CBL Boss Funeral over Session

Monrovia Liberia: On Tuesday, the chambers of the Liberian Senate were noticeably empty as senators, including Pro Tempore Senator Nyonblee Kangar-Lawrence, when to attend the funeral of Charles Sirleaf, son of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, Speaker of the 55th Legislature, was among the legislators in attendance but quickly returned to Capitol Hill to fulfill his national duties.

While the House of Representatives held a crucial session, the Senate canceled its meeting at the last minute (2:30 PM) without any formal communication.

Such decision was due to the absence and apparent neglect of duty by the Pro Tempore, the Vice President, and other key senators who were expected to preside over Tuesday’s session.

Our reporter was later informed that the senators were en route to the interment and repast of the late CBL governor Charles E. Sirleaf.

 A Senate release stated that the session was deferred due to the Senate's failure to meet quorum. According to Senate rules, two-thirds of the total membership is required to conduct official business.