By: Julius Konton
In a strong and purposeful address marking the opening of the third and final quarter of the second session, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Richard Nagbe Koon, laid out a focused legislative agenda while calling for unity, diligence, and patriotism from lawmakers.
Welcoming colleagues back from the constituency break, Speaker Koon emphasized the need to match the energy of the break with the seriousness of the work ahead, noting that “our people are watching with great expectation.”
A key highlight of the Speaker’s remarks was the ongoing refurbishment of the main chamber of the House, a project he described as more than cosmetic.
“This project is a testament to our commitment to restore dignity, order, and pride to the people’s House,” he said. “It will stand as a symbol of the modern, functional, and accountable Legislature that we aspire to build”, he added.
Speaker Koon also urged lawmakers to uphold order and discipline by using their official legislative license plates, noting that respect for institutional identity, however minor it may seem, sends a strong message of accountability.
Speaker Koon issued a direct call to the committee reviewing the House Rules to present their draft revisions without delay, arguing that updated rules are essential to aligning legislative work with modern standards and global best practices.
“Committees are the engine rooms of this Legislature… I encourage you to engage one another, share expertise, and ensure that reports are timely, thorough, and action-oriented.”
With the National Budget expected to be submitted soon, Speaker Koon challenged his colleagues to take the review process seriously, describing the budget as “a reflection of our values and priorities as a nation.”
He highlighted three critical sectors requiring attention: Health: Increased funding for John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital, Education: Investment in infrastructure and operations at the University of Liberia and Aviation: Upgrades to safety and navigation systems at Roberts International Airport.
“Each committee member must make it a priority to attend the hearings of entities under their oversight,” he stressed. “This is where our duty to the Liberian people becomes most practical.”
Speaker Koon flagged the New Elections Law as a top priority, urging the Committee on Elections to deliver its report for immediate plenary debate.
The legislation, which includes a review of constituency thresholds, has already exceeded constitutional timelines.
He also called on the Senate to fast-track pending instruments, especially the National Old Folks Bill and the Amended Disability Act, both critical for inclusive governance and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
The Speaker commended the progress made toward establishing the Mano River Union Parliament, noting that Liberia’s representatives will soon be named.
The formal launch is expected early next year in a neighboring MRU country.
“This initiative reflects our continued commitment to regional dialogue and cooperation,” Koon noted.
In a poignant closing, Speaker Koon reminded lawmakers of the legacy they are shaping:
“Let us work not as partisans, but as patriots… Our collective actions in these chambers will define the kind of country we leave behind for the next generation.”
He concluded by invoking national pride and a shared sense of duty, encouraging lawmakers to finish the session with honor and integrity.
“Let us ensure that when the curtain falls on this second session, the people of Liberia will say with pride that our Representatives stood for us, spoke for us, and served us well.”
