MONROVIA, Montserrado – J. Alex Tyler has finally been removed as speaker of the House of Representatives after a vote on Tuesday.

A total of 49 lawmakers voted against Tyler, constituting the minimum two-thirds of house’s membership of 73 needed to keep in line with the constitution. Tyler, meanwhile, is currently out of the country on medical leave.

Some lawmakers who had earlier supported the speakership of Tyler, including Solomon George, Morias Waylee, Saah Joseph, Samuel Worleh, and Garrison Yealue were also among the 49 lawmakers.

The decision followed recommendations of a report from the House’s Committee on Rules, Order and Administration, which was investigating the speaker for allegations of bribery and other criminal acts while serving the position.

The committee’s investigation was prompted by a complaint from Henry Fahnbulleh and Samuel Korgar of Montserrado and Nimba, respectively.

Following its investigation, the committee recommended to the plenary that Tyler be removed in keeping with the house’s rules. Those rules allow the House of Representatives to “take disciplinary measures against any member who violates or fails to comply with the House ethics and procedures.”

The report said although Tyler was duly notified of the charges against him and the date and time for the hearing, he “failed, refused, and neglected” to appear and the committee proceeded with the hearing. “The complainants, witnesses, and committee members were present,” it said.

The speaker was earlier forced to recuse himself as presiding officer of the body while he stands trial after being indicted on bribery allegations.

The anti-corruption watchdog, Global Witness, released a report accusing Tyler and others of receiving bribes to change the Public Procurement and Concession Act to facilitate British company Sable Mining’s acquisition of mining rights over Wologissi Mountain in Lofa.

The Judge of Criminal Court C at the Temple of Justice has since approved Tyler’s request to seek medical treatment abroad.

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Hans Barchue will continue to act as speaker until a new leader is elected in 60 days, in line with the body’s standing rules.

Featured photo courtesy of the Liberian Legislature