CAPITOL HILL, LIBERIA – Speaker of the House of Representatives, Richard Nagbeh Koon, delivered a stirring address during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 27, 2025, urging lawmakers to act decisively in advancing Liberia’s development agenda. Speaking before President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, his fellow legislators, and key government officials, Koon emphasized the importance of collective effort and strategic legislation in realizing the country’s future aspirations.
Koon began his address by acknowledging the historic significance of the moment, highlighting Liberia’s shared commitment to progress and the role of the legislature in shaping the nation’s destiny. “We are here today, bound by a common purpose: to serve our people and secure their future,” he remarked. In a speech laced with optimism and determination, the Speaker stressed the need for unity in implementing the transformative policies envisioned in the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), a flagship initiative designed to unlock growth and opportunities for all Liberians.
In his remarks, Koon underscored the critical role of data in the legislative process, particularly in the implementation of the AAID. He called on the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS) to promptly finalize and present the 2022 national population and housing census report to the Legislature. The Speaker emphasized that the data is crucial for the proper demarcation of constituencies, a task mandated by the Liberian Constitution to ensure equal representation. With the last census data from 2008, Koon stressed that the timely submission of the updated report is vital for lawmakers to make informed decisions and uphold the principles of fair governance.
“The foundation of effective decision-making rests on accurate data,” Koon asserted, urging LISGIS to expedite the completion of the census report. He further explained that the national census serves as the benchmark for ensuring that constituencies remain balanced in terms of population size, a provision that directly impacts the equitable distribution of political power in the country.
Moving forward, Koon called for swift legislative action on several key pieces of legislation that he described as vital for Liberia’s future. Among the critical laws he highlighted was the Presidential Transition Act, which seeks to establish a clear and orderly process for the peaceful transfer of political power. The Speaker urged the Senate to join the House in passing this law, emphasizing its importance in maintaining political stability and strengthening Liberia’s democratic processes.
The Speaker also urged his colleagues to prioritize the Liberia National Tourism Authority Act, which he argued will help unlock Liberia’s tourism potential. By establishing a national tourism body, Koon believes the country can attract investment, create jobs, and boost its global image. He noted that Liberia’s natural beauty remains underappreciated, and the passage of this Act could unlock significant economic benefits for the country.
In addition to tourism, Koon called for the establishment of a Commission for the Elderly, a long-awaited piece of legislation that has been pending in the Senate for several years. The Speaker emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and well-being of Liberia’s elderly population, a group that has been marginalized for far too long. He expressed hope that the Senate would act swiftly to ensure the Commission is established to advocate for the elderly and address their specific needs.
Another priority for Koon was the Ministry of Local Government Act, which seeks to decentralize the governance system in Liberia. Koon argued that empowering local governments is crucial for promoting inclusive development and ensuring that all citizens have access to basic services. The decentralization of power would help bring government closer to the people, particularly in rural areas, and allow for more effective and responsive leadership.
“Local government is where true change begins,” Koon said, urging lawmakers to fast-track the passage of the Ministry of Local Government Act to bring the country closer to the ideals of decentralization. He reiterated that such reforms are essential for national development, as they allow citizens to have more say in the decisions that directly affect their lives.
In addition to these pressing issues, Koon also called for a renewed focus on electoral reforms, particularly the New Election Law. The Speaker emphasized that the law is vital for ensuring free and fair elections, which are the cornerstone of Liberia’s democracy. He noted that electoral integrity must be upheld to prevent any undermining of public trust in the electoral process, and he called on legislators to prioritize these reforms in the current legislative session.
Concluding his address, Speaker Koon reaffirmed his commitment to the Liberian people and the principles of good governance. He appealed to his colleagues to set aside political differences and work together for the benefit of the nation. “The challenges are great, but together we are stronger,” Koon said, urging lawmakers to rise above partisan divides and focus on the greater good of Liberia. He concluded by invoking a prayer for divine guidance in the work ahead, hoping that the Legislature’s efforts would lead to a brighter future for all Liberians.
