By Jamesetta D Williams
MONROVIA – The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the conduct of Bong County District #3 Representative Marvin Cole following a dramatic incident in the chamber that lawmakers say may have violated parliamentary rules and procedures.
The decision was reached Tuesday during the House’s 9th Day Sitting of the Second Quarter of the Third Session after members raised concerns over Cole’s actions before the start of plenary proceedings.
The controversy stems from an incident in which Representative Cole occupied the Speaker’s chair and later addressed the media, criticizing the absence of lawmakers and House leadership from the scheduled session. During the press conference, the Bong County lawmaker reportedly expressed frustration over repeated delays in legislative proceedings and warned that he would order the chamber doors closed if members, including House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, failed to arrive on time.
His actions quickly drew attention within the Legislature and sparked debate among lawmakers over the limits of individual authority within the House.
Following discussions in plenary, members voted to refer the matter to the House Committee on Rules, Order and Administration for investigation.
The committee has been tasked with reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident and determining whether Representative Cole’s conduct breached any provisions of the House’s standing rules.
Several lawmakers argued that occupying the Speaker’s chair without authorization and making unilateral declarations could undermine institutional order and established legislative procedures.
The committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations during Thursday’s sitting, at which time plenary will determine whether any disciplinary or corrective measures are necessary.
Meanwhile, Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon used the occasion to remind lawmakers of the importance of respecting the authority attached to leadership positions within the Legislature.
Addressing members during the session, Koon stressed that the offices of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker must be treated with dignity and respect.
“The chairs of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are not vacant, especially when we are in the country. This is not a playground,” Koon declared.
He further warned members against actions that could diminish the integrity of the House and urged lawmakers to uphold the standards expected of elected representatives.
The investigation comes amid growing public interest in the conduct of members of the Legislature and the need to maintain discipline and professionalism within the country’s highest lawmaking body.
House leadership says the inquiry reflects its commitment to preserving order, protecting institutional authority, and ensuring adherence to the rules governing legislative proceedings.
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