Bility Warns Against Executive Interference

By Edwin N. Khakie

MONROVIA, October 9, 2026 — Nimba County District #7 Representative Musa Hassan Bility has expressed concern over what he describes as growing Executive Branch influence on the National Legislature, warning that interference in the Legislature’s constitutional responsibilities could undermine Liberia’s democratic system.

Bility said lawmakers must defend the independence of the Legislature and resist any attempt by the Executive to interfere with its internal operations, budgetary responsibilities and constitutional authority.

Speaking Thursday during an appearance on Voice of Liberia, the Nimba County lawmaker argued that the separation of powers remains fundamental to democratic governance and must be respected by all three branches of government.

He maintained that the Legislature has the constitutional authority to manage its internal affairs and should not surrender those responsibilities to the Executive.

Bility warned against actions that could disrupt the normal functioning of the Legislature, stressing that lawmakers must exercise their constitutional powers independently while remaining accountable to the Liberian people.

However, he did not identify specific instances of Executive interference or provide details of actions he believes have compromised the Legislature’s independence.

The lawmaker also challenged his colleagues to demonstrate greater accountability in managing public resources, arguing that legislative independence must be accompanied by transparency and responsible spending.

According to him, lawmakers have an obligation to explain how public funds allocated to the Legislature are utilized.

He questioned the level of accountability surrounding government expenditures, saying citizens deserve clear explanations when millions of dollars are appropriated for public institutions, programs and operations.

Bility maintained that transparency in public spending is essential to strengthening public confidence in government and ensuring that resources are used for their intended purposes.

Meanwhile, the Nimba County representative also commented on the reported indictment of former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor, urging the public to respect the judicial process and avoid prejudging the allegations against her.

He said the legal proceedings should provide the former vice president an opportunity to challenge the allegations and present her defense before a court of competent jurisdiction.

“I will not be judgmental. I will not do any pre-judgment on this issue,” Bility said.

He emphasized that the allegations must be examined through the courts, rather than allowing public opinion to determine the outcome of the case.

His comments come amid public debate surrounding the legal proceedings involving the former vice president, who has faced allegations connected to an ongoing criminal investigation.

Bility stressed that the presumption of innocence and the right to due process must be respected regardless of the political status of an accused person.

Turning to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s recent participation in the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Bility acknowledged concerns over the size of Liberia’s official delegation.

He said the number of officials accompanying the President could have been reduced, particularly in light of the country’s economic challenges and competing demands on public resources.

However, Bility defended President Boakai’s engagement with Liberians in the diaspora, describing such interactions as important opportunities to advance Liberia’s diplomatic and economic interests.

He argued that Liberians living abroad represent a valuable national resource that government should engage more effectively in promoting investment, international cooperation and development.

According to Bility, many countries rely on their diaspora communities to strengthen diplomatic relationships, attract investment and mobilize political and economic support.

He said Liberia should adopt a similar approach by encouraging citizens abroad to play a more active role in advocating for the country’s interests internationally.

Bility’s remarks highlight his concerns about legislative independence, public financial accountability, respect for due process and the need for stronger engagement with Liberians abroad.

— The New Dawn