Rep. Fallah Kpakar is dead

The chambers of the House of Representatives sunk in tears and grieve Thursday, 10 November when Speaker J. Emmanuel Nuquay announced the death of Lofa County Representative Eugene FallahKpakar, who hailed from electoral district six.

Representatives Gabriel Buchanan Smith and Julie Wiah could not hold back their tears when reporters sought from them an interview. The fallen lawmaker, who had been described by his people as representative without border, reportedly died in India, where he went to seek medical attention following a protracted ailment.

The 41-yrs old Liberty Party lawmaker died at 7:45 a.m. on Thursday at the Polay Hospital in India after battling sickness. Speaking with legislative reporters at the Capitol, Rep. Clarence Massaquoi of Lofa County said the loss of Rep. Kpakar is a big blow to the people of Lofa and the entire country, saying the people of Lofa have lost “a giant, leader, and wonderful friend.”

He further described Rep. Kpakar as a man, who did not see himself as a member of the legislature, but one who always encouraged young people he met along the way. Massaquoi the cause of death has not been established, but the Lower House is in contact with the hospital in India for full detail.

The Rep. Kpakar was a very smart and socialable lawmaker. Meanwhile, reporters assigned at the Capitol under the banner “Legislative Press Pool” have expressed condolences to the bereaved family, Speaker Nuquay, and all members of the House of Representatives for the demise.

LEGISPOL President E. J. Nathaniel Daygbor said Rep. Kpakar was one of the greatest newsmakers during his days at the chambers and also established strong ties with reporters over the years.

The Government of Liberia has according begun arrangements with the Indian Consulate here to fly the remains of Representative Kpakar home for interment. Since the inception of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, at least five sitting lawmakers have died, including the late Isaac Johnson of River Gee; John Whitefield of Grand Bassa County;, Nelson WahBai of Grand Kru County; Moses SaahTanapolie of Montserrado County and FofiSaahBamba of Lofa County, respectively with the home-going of Eugene FallahKpakar bringing the number to six.

By Bridgett Milton-Editing by Jonathan Browne