Over forty (40) representatives recently gathered at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) to receive Deputy Speaker, J. Fonati Koffa, and reaffirm their commitment to his Speakership election; Mercy M. Kpaingbay writes.
Speaking to reporters at the RIA, Deputy Speaker Koffa stated that the presence of his colleagues at the airport clearly indicates that they have the numbers and so there is no need to be hiding from the public.
He praised the group for revolutionizing the way in which Speakers are chosen in the country, observing that there will be no more backroom deceptive deals.
“Someone standing with you publicly is more likely to stand with in you privately, so these numbers here today clearly demonstrate the integrity and independent mindedness of the in-coming 55th Legislature,” Deputy Speaker stated.
Deputy Speaker Koffa added that the winning number for the Speakership is thirty-eight (38), and anyone who arrives at 38 has votes, and his camp has more than 40 votes.
“Any other vote that comes from anywhere, regardless of how many alliances they have formed, can never reach 38. The most you will reach is 35, so we are not worried. We wish them good luck. This is a democratic process,and we think everybody should participate. The more alliances, the better,” Deputy Speaker Koffa added.
When asked whether he trusts his supporters, Deputy Speaker Koffa replied that he believes and trusts the support of his colleagues because they have demonstrated their loyalty publicly by signing a resolution, and also appeared publicly. He said that alone makes him to believe in them, noting that their numbers are real.
“I respect my colleagues. I respect their integrity and they will not come and do anything other than what they mean. That is why we have continued to stay together as a unit—we continue to consult each other, and we believe at the end of the day this group and additional members will stand with us,” the Deputy Speaker further stated.
