My Fellow Citizens;
Our Supportive Partners;
Other Esteemed Residents in our Dear Country;
The Media
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:
Early this morning our determined, persevering and hopeful citizenry and residents woke up to the terrible news of the eruption of a devastating fire at the seat of our first Branch of Government-the historic Capitol Building.
In line with what the gravity of such an occurrence demands, we paid a visit to the scene to identify with the leaders and members of the Legislature and see for myself the impact of the destruction.
As the appropriate authorities work tirelessly to investigate the cause of the fire, I want to express my deep sadness and frustration over such an unfortunate incident. I would like to extend my gratitude to the brave firefighters, volunteers, and law enforcement officers for their efforts in controlling the blaze.
It is profoundly disheartening to witness the country’s center of political dialogue and representation lying in ruins, requiring significant resources to restore. This restoration will demand a considerable amount from our already limited resources.
An incident of this unpleasant nature will evidently lower the morale of the people, cast uncertainty in the air, dampen the courage of the population, and create an impression of imminent doom. But I come this evening to calm your hearts, to soothe your emotions, and reinvigorate your faith and confidence in our Republic.
For many years, our Capitol Building, which was opened for service to the Liberian people in 1957, has stood as a powerful symbol of our representative democracy, national unity, and a source of national pride.
Given the seriousness of this situation, I want to emphasize that now is a critical time for all Liberians to unite in the face of adversity. At the same time, I stress the importance of upholding the rule of law and the democratic process, and I condemn any form of violence or intimidation. Further, we vow to resist any act that seeks to derail our separate but coordinate roles.
Fellow citizens,
As I conveyed during my visit earlier this morning, the Legislature has our strong support for the important work they do on behalf of all our people—from Cape Mount to Cape Palmas and from Montserrado to Nimba. We acknowledge the challenges they face and offer our assistance in rebuilding and restoring the Capitol.
I call on the security agencies to expedite their investigation into the cause of the devastating fire.
Furthermore, I direct the Ministry of Public Works and the General Services Agency to conduct an assessment to determine the scope of the damage.
Fellow Liberians,
While we grieve over this unfortunate destruction, we want to uplift your spirits by sharing some optimistic news that is more empowering and impactful for our progress.
Today, thanks to the significant improvements we have made in our governance process, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has officially informed me that Liberia’s outstanding performance has qualified the country for a second Compact.
This giant achievement by our dear country will unlock a significant amount of resources for our development agenda and further help to address the binding constraints to growth in our country.
Details on the exact amount of the funding and other relevant information on Liberia second Compact II will be released subsequently by the Government.
This is a development that must lift any spirit and restore hope that indeed we are bound to achieve greater feats. Let’s join our voices together and say CONGRATULATIONS, LIBERIA!
As I close, let me seize this moment to state here clearly that violence has no place in our society and that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
I also reaffirm the commitment of my Government to democracy, the rule of law, and the principles of good governance.
Let us therefore ensure that this incident is a mere fleeting stain that should never undermine our country’s progress.
Indeed, in a much more forceful resolve, let us reinforce our commitment to THINK LIBERIA, LOVE LIBERIA, and keep all hands on deck to BUILD LIBERIA.
Please have my best wishes for a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!
May God bless us all and save our peaceful Republic.
