01/12/2026
Speaker Koon Outlines Reform Agenda as Legislature Opens Third Session
By: Emmanuel N Davis
Monrovia, Liberia – The House of Representatives on Monday formally resumed work for the Third Session of the 55th Legislature, with Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon delivering his official statement during a historic sitting at the Providence Baptist Church.
In his address, Speaker Koon expressed gratitude to lawmakers for their collaboration during the previous session and for the confidence reposed in his leadership following the recent transition in House leadership. He pledged to continue leading with humility, integrity, and a servant’s posture, guided by the collective will of the House and the best interests of the Liberian people.
Highlighting the symbolic choice of venue, Koon noted that Providence Baptist Church represents Liberia’s democratic foundations, where early lawmakers pledged allegiance to the Constitution. He urged colleagues to recommit themselves to constitutionalism, discipline, and purpose as guiding principles for the new session.
Reform Achievements and Challenges
Reflecting on the past session, the Speaker outlined key reforms, including the restructuring of the House’s central administrative staff in collaboration with the Civil Service Agency. He acknowledged challenges but emphasized the importance of building a professional workforce and establishing a transparent payroll system.
Koon also pointed to efforts aimed at restoring unity among lawmakers, strengthening transparency, and enhancing accountability. These included requesting an audit of the House by the General Auditing Commission and supporting the creation of an Internal Audit Department through the Committee on Public Accounts.
Infrastructure, Security, and Staff Welfare
Providing updates on infrastructure, the Speaker disclosed that renovations of the main chamber are nearing completion and expected to be ready by the end of the first quarter. Modern security systems, including CCTV surveillance and biometric access, have already been installed.
On staff welfare, he cited the procurement of buses to ease transportation challenges, strengthening of operational departments, and ongoing engagements with staff to address salary and welfare concerns.
Legislative Priorities
Looking ahead, Speaker Koon outlined priority items for the Third Session, including:
Passage of a New Elections Law Deliberations on electoral redistricting Establishment of a Diaspora Legislative Caucus to advance voting rights for Liberians abroad
He also emphasized the need to empower the Legislative Budget Office, improve legislative discipline through timely sittings, enhance relations with the Executive Branch, and clear a backlog of pending bills.
International Engagement
On the global stage, Koon announced that Liberia will host the Fourth Assembly of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (COSPAL) later this year. He further confirmed progress toward the full establishment of the Mano River Union Parliamentary Body, with enabling legislation awaiting presidential assent.
Call for Unity
Concluding his remarks, Speaker Koon expressed optimism for the Third Session, urging members to remain united, uphold the Constitution, and stay committed to accountability and national service.
