The Supreme Court of Liberia justice in chamber justice Jame6isetta Wolokollie has declined to issue the alternative writ of mandamus as prayed by lawyers representing former House Speaker Fonati Koffa and several others. According to documents obtained by this news outlet, the former speaker's legal team is challenging a lower court’s ruling which accepted the prosecution’s objection to their bail bond. They argue that the judge committed reversible error in disqualifying their bond and are asking the Supreme Court to review and overturn that decision.
The Ministry of Justice, represented by the County Attorney of Montserrado and the City Solicitor of Monrovia, is listed as the plaintiff in the matter. The State has continued to argue that the bond filed by the defendants is insufficient under the law and fails to meet the legal criteria necessary for pretrial release.
The petitioners, on the other hand, contend that their bond meets all legal requirements and that the objections raised by the prosecution are frivolous and politically motivated. They are seeking relief through the highest court, insisting that their rights under the Constitution are being violated.
The accused individuals maintain their innocence and claim that their continued detention is a breach of due process and fair trial rights guaranteed under Liberian law. However, the case is expected to continue on Tuesday September 2, 2025, before criminal court A’’ judge Roosevelt Z. Willie.
Author: Melvin Jackson
