MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Senate, through its Committee on Ways, Means, Finance, and Budget, has proposed an allocation of $1.8 million in the 2025 Draft National Budget to begin renovating the fire-damaged Capitol Building. The proposal, led by Bong County Senator Prince K. Moye, seeks to address significant destruction to the Rotunda and Joint Chambers following a fire incident on December 18, 2024.
The fire, which shocked the nation, severely damaged key sections of the Capitol and occurred against a backdrop of unresolved disputes in the House of Representatives over efforts to remove Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa. While the cause of the blaze remains unclear, its timing has fueled speculation, with opposing factions within the Legislature trading accusations.
During Thursday’s session, Senator Moye emphasized the urgency of the renovation to ensure the Capitol is ready to host President Joseph N. Boakai’s State of the Nation Address in January, as mandated by Article 58 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution. “The fire incident highlights the immediate need to restore our legislative chambers, especially with the upcoming annual address by the President,” Moye said.
He described the Capitol as a democratic symbol of national governance and urged his colleagues to prioritize the dignity and functionality of the Legislature despite ongoing political disagreements. Moye also underscored that the proposed allocation is for the benefit of taxpayers and the smooth functioning of government operations.
However, questions about financial transparency have emerged, as the Senate Committee has yet to provide a detailed breakdown of the estimated renovation costs. The lack of clarity has drawn criticism, adding to the already tense political environment within the Legislature.
The fire incident has intensified existing divisions within the House, with some accusing Speaker Koffa’s minority bloc of involvement, while others view it as a strategic ploy by the majority bloc to weaken the embattled Speaker.
Meanwhile, financial experts have noted that as deliberations on the FY2025 Draft National Budget continue, the proposed $1.8 million allocation for Capitol renovations is likely to trigger important debate. They emphasized that while the restoration effort is essential, the project’s financial and political implications are expected to remain under intense public and legislative analysis.
