Andrew B Weah
IPNEWS: The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, on Monday set an ambitious reform tone as the Legislature formally commenced the Third Session of the 55th Legislature, convening in a historic sitting at the Providence Baptist Church—one of Liberia’s most symbolic democratic landmarks.
Addressing fellow lawmakers, Speaker Koon welcomed members back from recess and expressed appreciation for the cooperation demonstrated during the previous session. He also thanked colleagues for the confidence reposed in his leadership following the recent transition in the House, pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and a servant-leader’s mindset anchored in the collective will of the Legislature and the best interests of the Liberian people.
The Speaker described the decision to convene at Providence Baptist Church as deeply symbolic, noting that the sacred site recalls the nation’s democratic origins, where early lawmakers pledged allegiance to the Constitution. He urged members to draw inspiration from that legacy by recommitting themselves to constitutionalism, discipline, unity, and a renewed sense of purpose as the Third Session unfolds.
Reflecting on achievements from the previous session, Speaker Koon highlighted key institutional reforms, including the restructuring of the House’s central administrative staff in collaboration with the Civil Service Agency (CSA). While acknowledging the challenges associated with the process, he stressed that the reforms were necessary to professionalize the workforce, eliminate inefficiencies, and establish a centralized and transparent payroll system. He commended the Committee on Rules, Order and Administration for its pivotal role in advancing the reform agenda.
The Speaker also underscored efforts to restore unity and cordial working relations among lawmakers following a turbulent period in the Legislature. As part of broader transparency and accountability measures, he disclosed that the House formally requested the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to audit its operations and supported the establishment of an Internal Audit Department through the Committee on Public Accounts.
On infrastructure and institutional security, Speaker Koon announced that renovation works on the main chamber of the House are nearing completion and are expected to be finalized by the end of the first quarter. He further revealed that modern security enhancements—including CCTV surveillance systems and biometric access controls—have been installed to safeguard the Legislature.
Addressing staff welfare, the Speaker cited the procurement of buses to ease transportation challenges and boost productivity, the strengthening of key operational departments, and ongoing engagements with House staff to resolve concerns related to salaries and general welfare.
Speaker Koon also outlined steps taken to empower the Legislative Budget Office, improve legislative discipline through timely and regular sittings, strengthen collaboration with the Executive Branch, and address the backlog of long-pending bills awaiting legislative action.
Looking ahead, he identified priority items for the Third Session, including the passage of a new Elections Law, deliberations on electoral redistricting, and the proposed establishment of a Diaspora Legislative Caucus aimed at advancing voting rights for Liberians living abroad.
On the international front, Speaker Koon announced that Liberia will host the Fourth Assembly of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (COSPAL) later this year, underscoring the country’s growing stature in continental legislative diplomacy. He also confirmed progress toward the full establishment of the Mano River Union Parliamentary Body, noting that Liberia’s enabling legislation is currently awaiting presidential assent.
In closing, Speaker Koon expressed optimism for the Third Session, calling on lawmakers to remain united, uphold the Constitution, embrace accountability, and dedicate themselves to genuine national service as Liberia continues its democratic journey.
