NATIONAL NEWS
Monrovia – President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Senator Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, has formally declared open the Third Session of the 55th Legislature, outlining major legislative achievements from the previous session and unveiling an ambitious reform agenda for the months ahead.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Senator Lawrence welcomed fellow senators, former members of the Senate, staff, members of the media, and distinguished guests, extending New Year greetings and thanking colleagues for their service during the just-ended constituency break.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
She praised the government for improved road connectivity across the country, describing the ability of lawmakers and citizens to commute freely during the holiday season as a “significant achievement,” and commended President Joseph N. Boakai for his vision in making Liberia’s roads more accessible.
Reflecting on the Second Session, which officially closed on December 18, 2025, the Pro Tempore disclosed that the Senate held 59 sittings, passed 76 pieces of legislation, ratified nine agreements, enacted 64 laws, and adopted three amendments. During the same period, 236 nominees were designated, with 213 confirmed.
On oversight, Senator Lawrence highlighted the Senate’s role in adjusting petroleum pricing, a move that has increased national revenue earmarked for road funds and the acquisition of road equipment for all counties. She also noted that the Legislature honored a historic commitment to include budgetary appropriations for all county capitals and salaries for County Council members for the first time.
The Pro Tempore extended special commendation to the Committees on Foreign Affairs and Defense & Security for their role in Liberia’s successful election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, congratulating the nation on taking its seat and calling for regular committee briefings.
She further referenced the passage of the Port Authority and Port Autonomy bills, describing them as central to the Senate’s reform agenda on economic decentralization. According to her, the legislation is expected to stimulate development in Liberia’s three port cities, create thousands of jobs, and reduce congestion in Monrovia by encouraging decentralization.
The bills also establish a regulatory framework for all sea and inland ports, in line with international best practices.
Turning to internal reforms, Senator Lawrence announced steps toward salary standardization for Senate staff and disclosed that the Civil Service Agency will conduct personnel and credential evaluations in collaboration with the Senate’s Rules, Order and Administration Committee. She also mandated the Ways, Means & Finance and Public Accounts Committees to review the harmonization process affecting civil servants and report back within two weeks.
On infrastructure, she revealed that the Government of China remains committed to renovating the Capitol Building’s joint chamber and old structure. Relevant Senate and House committees, along with the Ministry of Public Works, have been tasked with completing a feasibility study.
The Pro Tempore reported progress on implementing recommendations from the General Auditing Commission (GAC), noting that since 2024 the Senate has fully and partially implemented 34 of the 174 audit recommendations, with additional reforms awaiting plenary validation.
She also presented a suite of draft human resource and financial policies, alongside the Senate Strategic Plan (2025–2029), which she said will guide institutional reforms during the Third Session.
As priorities for the new session, Senator Lawrence identified the launch of the Strategic Plan, validation of HR and financial policies, finalization of a compensation framework, and institutionalization of operational manuals.
In closing, Senator Lawrence declared the Third Session officially open, stating that the sitting was in fulfillment of the Constitution of Liberia and the Senate’s standing rules.
