By: Melvin Flomo
Capitol Building, Monrovia, January 12, 2026 — Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr. on Monday called for courage, unity, and patriotism as the 55th National Legislature formally commenced the Third Regular Session of the Liberian Senate, urging lawmakers to rise above partisan divides and place national interest first.
Addressing the Senate at the Capitol, Vice President Koung described the opening of the new session as a defining moment in Liberia’s democratic journey—one that demands “courage over comfort, unity over division, and patriotism over partisanship.”
He reaffirmed the Senate’s constitutional role as a pillar of governance, accountability, and representation, noting that through legislative deliberations, laws are shaped, oversight strengthened, and the promise of the Constitution sustained.
A major highlight of the Vice President’s address was the Senate’s role in passing Liberia’s first national budget exceeding one billion United States dollars, a milestone he described as more than a fiscal achievement.
“This was not just a financial milestone; it was a statement of national intent,” Koung said. “It signaled to our people and to the world that Liberia is ready to think bigger, act decisively, and achieve greater results.”
He emphasized that the achievement reflected the Senate’s responsibility not merely as party representatives, but as custodians of the national interest, stressing that progress is possible when Liberia comes first.
Calling for collaboration across political lines, the Vice President urged Senators to work together in crafting laws and policies that strengthen governance, deepen democracy, and uphold the rule of law. Political diversity, he said, should be a source of strength rather than division.
VP Koung also commended the opposition for its constitutional role in holding the government accountable, underscoring that a healthy democracy requires scrutiny and dissent. However, he cautioned that accountability must be constructive, grounded in dialogue, evidence, and policy debate—not personal attacks or destructive rhetoric.
“Liberia gains nothing from false
allegations or politics of personal destruction,” he warned. “Our people deserve better. Our democracy demands better.”
Turning to members of the ruling party, the Vice President urged discipline, humility, and a results-oriented approach to governance, reminding them that leadership is measured by deliverables, not promises.
He further assured Liberians of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.’s unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the ARREST Agenda, aimed at restoring public trust, transforming lives, and building a resilient, inclusive economy.
While acknowledging job creation as a major national challenge, Koung noted that sustained efforts are underway through the execution of the national budget, including investments in electricity, agriculture, infrastructure, and private sector growth.
“These are not overnight solutions,” he said, “but they are the foundations for long-term prosperity.”
In closing, the Vice President reminded lawmakers that the Liberian people are watching and expect sincerity, cooperation, and progress—not perfection.
He expressed hope that the Third Regular Session would be remembered as one of unity, maturity, and national renewal, leaving a legacy of dialogue over division and service over self.
“Let history reflect that Liberia chose nation over party,” Koung concluded.
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