The Liberian House of Representatives is seeking a new venue for the State of the Nation Address scheduled for January 30, 2025, due to ongoing renovations at the Capitol Building. Rep. James Kolleh announced that the traditional venue is unsuitable after a fire incident in December 2024. Discussions are ongoing to finalize a site that reflects the significance of the event, which will discuss key initiatives under President Boakai’s governance plan.
The House of Representatives in Liberia is currently in the process of finding an alternative venue for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), scheduled for January 30, 2025. As announced by Rep. James Kolleh, the Chairman on Rules, Order, and Administration, this decision arises due to ongoing renovations at the Capitol Building following damages caused by a fire in December 2024. Given that the renovations cannot be completed in time, discussions are underway to determine a more suitable and conducive location for this significant event.
In December of last year, the Joint Chamber at the Capitol was destroyed during a political crisis, rendering the usual venue unusable for SONA. In light of these circumstances, Rep. Kolleh emphasized the necessity of finding a new location that befits the importance of the address. The planning involves collaboration between various committees and the Executive branch to finalize a venue that can accommodate both local and foreign dignitaries.
The President of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, is expected to present key initiatives under his governance plan, the ARREST Agenda, which emphasizes Agriculture, Roads, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. Preparations for the address are under urgent scrutiny to ensure that the chosen venue reflects the ceremony’s gravitas and meets the needs of all attendees. Republic officials assure the public that consultations are actively taking place to appropriately designate the location for this annual constitutional duty.
The State of the Nation Address is an important constitutional requirement in Liberia, whereby the President reports to the Legislature regarding the state of the Republic. Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution specifies that this address must be given on the fourth working Monday of January each year, outlining the government’s legislative program and highlighting key issues pertaining to the nation’s economic condition. In previous years, this address has typically taken place at the Capitol, necessitating the appropriate venue for its significance. However, recent renovations and damage to the Capitol Building have prompted the legislature to seek alternative locations for the upcoming address.
In conclusion, the House of Representatives is faced with the challenge of identifying an appropriate venue for the upcoming State of the Nation Address due to the ongoing renovations at the Capitol. As the date approaches, the necessity for collaboration among legislative committees and the executive branch will be crucial in ensuring a successful event that meets the expectations of both national and international stakeholders. The address will focus on significant initiatives under President Boakai’s governance plan, underscoring its importance in shaping Liberia’s future.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
