Members of the House of Representatives have voted to formally notify lawmakers who have been absent from session for more than two weeks without excuse to report to session or face punitive actions. Plenary’s decision Tuesday, during its 9th day sitting of the 1st quarter of 2nd session, followed a communication from the Representative of Bong County Electoral District 2, Hon. James M. Kolleh, urging his colleagues to direct the Enrolling Clerk to read out the names of lawmakers who have missed more than four session days without excuse. Rep. Kolleh emphasized that the persistent absenteeism of some lawmakers is depriving their constituencies of adequate representation. He cited Rule 21 of the House’s Standing Rules and Procedures, which mandates that members must attend sessions and may only be excused with formal approval. According to the records from the Enrolling Clerk, the following lawmakers have been absent without excuse for multiple sessions:
- Rep. J. Fonati Koffa – 8 session days
- Rep. Taa Wongbe – 8 session days
- Rep. Musa Bility – 6 session days
- Rep. Roland Opie Cooper – 6 session days
- Rep. Luther Collins – 5 session days
According to the House Standing Rule 21 on Absenteeism Rule 21.1 states: “No House member shall stay away from sessions without the expressed approval of the House for a period of more than two weeks; for a period less than two weeks, permission may be sought from the Speaker. Violators shall be penalized in a manner deemed appropriate by the leadership of the House in consultation with plenary.” Following a debate, of Margibi County Electoral District 2 Representative, Hon. Ivar Jones, proffered a motion for the Chief Clerk to officially notify all absentee lawmakers about their failure to attend sessions. Lawmakers who fail to report to session by Thursday, February 20, 2025, will face legislative sanctions as determined by Plenary.
The House of Representatives remains committed to upholding legislative int