The House of Representatives in Liberia is currently seeking an alternative venue for the 2024 State of the Nation Address due to ongoing renovations at the Capitol, which was damaged by fire in December 2024. Representative James Kolleh confirmed that discussions are underway to secure a location suitable for the significance of the occasion.
The leadership of the House of Representatives has announced that the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) will not take place in the William R. Tolbert Joint Chambers, due to ongoing renovation works at the Capitol Building. Representative James Kolleh, the Chairman on Rules, Order, and Administration, stated that given the current status of the renovation, it would be unfeasible to complete the work before the constitutionally mandated date of January 30, 2025, for the address.
The Joint Chamber had previously sustained extensive damage from a fire incident, which transpired during a political crisis following a violent protest in December 2024. As a result, discussions are now underway to determine a suitable alternative venue for the SONA. Representative Kolleh emphasized the importance of finding a location that is conducive for such a significant event. Stakeholders from the Committees on Executive and Foreign Affairs are actively involved in this decision-making process.
This year’s address is anticipated to outline key initiatives under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, encompassing critical areas such as Agriculture, Roads, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. As the designated date approaches, the urgency of finalizing an appropriate venue becomes increasingly pronounced, with consultations ongoing to ensure it meets the occasion’s significance.
Article 58 of Liberia’s Constitution mandates that the President should address the Legislature annually, detailing the economic state of the Republic, covering both expenditures and income. The efficiency of this process is paramount, particularly in the context of the country’s current challenges.
The State of the Nation Address is a significant annual event in Liberia where the President provides insights into the legislative agenda and economic conditions of the Republic. Given the political dynamics within the Legislature and recent calamities such as the fire at the Capitol, the determination of an alternate venue for the address has become essential. The urgency in scheduling has increased as the constitutionally required date approaches, requiring strategic collaboration between different governmental committees and branches.
In summary, the House of Representatives is prioritizing the identification of a suitable venue for the upcoming State of the Nation Address, as the traditional setting is undergoing renovations. With the address set to focus on critical initiatives introduced by President Boakai, there is an evident collaboration amongst various legislative committees to ensure success. The ongoing discussions underscore the significance of the event in the context of the Republic’s governance and economic trajectories.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
