CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA – The House of Representatives is set to welcome former President H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for a historic plenary session on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The former Liberian leader will engage Members of the House in what the Legislature describes as a landmark opportunity for dialogue and consultation.
The invitation was formally extended by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Richard Nagbe Koon, highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering continuity, democratic governance, and meaningful engagement with former heads of state.
In response to the invitation, former President Sirleaf expressed gratitude in a letter addressed to the Speaker, calling the opportunity “unprecedented” and emphasizing its historical significance. She noted that the invitation reflects a valuable platform to interact directly with the Legislature and share insights from her administration.
“I am deeply honored by the invitation and look forward to a constructive and lively exchange with the Members of the House of Representatives,” Sirleaf wrote. “This engagement represents a rare and important moment in Liberia’s democratic history.”
Former President Sirleaf also confirmed that her security team conducted a thorough inspection of the plenary venue and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, particularly regarding safe and orderly entry.
The House of Representatives indicated that the special session underscores its dedication to institutional dialogue, allowing current lawmakers to benefit from the experience and perspectives of former leaders.
Members of the Legislature are preparing to receive the former President in a session expected to cover matters of governance, national development, and democratic consolidation. According to the House, the engagement will also serve as an opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding between current lawmakers and past executive leadership.
Speaker Koon emphasized that the session aligns with the House’s broader vision of promoting continuity, institutional memory, and national unity. “Welcoming former President Sirleaf for this plenary session reflects our commitment to democracy, collaboration, and learning from the experience of those who have shaped Liberia’s modern governance,” he said.
This historic engagement will be conducted under full security protocols, ensuring the safety of all participants and orderly proceedings. It represents a rare occasion where a former President addresses sitting legislators in plenary, highlighting the House’s unique role in shaping policy discussions and national priorities.
Liberia’s citizens and the wider public are following the announcement with keen interest, anticipating insights from Sirleaf on governance, economic development, and lessons learned during her tenure as the nation’s first female President.
The House of Representatives will use the session to explore collaborative approaches with former leadership to enhance ongoing reforms, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster policy dialogue that benefits Liberians nationwide.
According to the official House statement, the session is expected to set a precedent for future engagements with former heads of state, reinforcing the principle of continuity and respect for Liberia’s political history.
Members expressed confidence that the plenary exchange will be both informative and inspiring, creating an avenue for reflection on policy, development priorities, and the advancement of Liberia’s democratic trajectory.
In closing her letter, Sirleaf thanked the Speaker and Members for the invitation and expressed anticipation for a session marked by robust discussion, knowledge sharing, and constructive dialogue.
The historic plenary with former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf demonstrates the House of Representatives’ commitment to inclusivity, democratic practice, and the integration of past experience into present decision-making.
