MONROVIA, September 2 (LINA) -The House of Representatives has given all lawmakers and other essential staffs who have not reported to work for a protracted period to return in one week or face drastic action.
Plenary took the decision Tuesday after Bong County Representative George Mulbah alarmed that some lawmakers and other essential staffs have been away from session or work for too long, according to the Liberia News Agency (LINA).
Although Mulbah did not name culprits, he noted that it was “unpatriotic and unfair” for the lawmakers to stay away from session when in fact the Legislature passed a resolution against the Agriculture Break due to the current health crisis in the country.
He said it was important that Plenary takes steps that will compel lawmakers and other essential staffs who are in and out of the country but not reporting to work to return and contribute their quota to the fight against the Ebola disease.
The Bong County lawmaker argued that the House’s Rule provides that before any Representative or Director travels he or she must write a letter of excuse to the Speaker.
Mulbah added that when the excuse is granted, that person is permitted to stay away for not more than 14 days unless with the knowledge or approval of Plenary.
Mulbah’s position sparked heated debate, after which Plenary voted to mandate its Rules and Order Committee to conduct a research to establish reasons why those involved are not reporting to work.
The Committee is requested to report to Plenary in one week.
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Hans Barchue has told Legislative Reporters that Plenary will make an informed decision on the issue when the Committee shall have completed its work.
LINA HVW/TSS/PTK