By Mark Mengonfia,mmenginfia@gmail.com
Amid widespread criticisms of bad governance practices, Liberian President George Manneh Weah is calling on Lawmakers to work in the supreme interest of the Liberian people.
Speaking in the Rotunda of the Capitol Building in Monrovia on Monday, January 13, 2020 during the opening of the 54th Liberian legislature, the Liberian leader said: “As you return to commence this session, it is my hope that you came with new vigor.”
In his brief statement, the ruling CDC party’s Standard Bearer encouraged the lawmakers to enact laws that will serve the people of the country.
In keeping with article 58 of the Liberian Constitution, the Liberian president is expected to address the Nation on January 27, 2020.
The Liberian President indicated that he will on next Monday present the legislature with their agenda for effective running of that branch of government.
Speaking further, President Weah also praised the lawmakers for the level of works done over the years.
He cited the harmonization of salaries as one of the work done by the Liberian Legislature in their last session, something he said was very good of them.
The Liberian international football icon-turned politician indicated that this 2020 is the year that he and his cabinet are going to work harder to recalibrate the country’s economy.
House Speaker Bhofal Chambers also speaking indicated that it is now time that they (Lawmakers) see those laws that are helpful to Liberia be maintained and undo those antiqued laws.
Speaker Chambers also spoke of the importance of the Liberian forest indicating that Liberia doesn’t benefit the country and its people.
“I want to thank you for being here, I want to thank the president for being here, but moving forward, let’s put Liberia first” he said as he looked at the president and the gathering.
For his part, Senate President Pro-Tempore, Albert Chie spoke of the collaboration between the House of Representatives and the Liberian Senate over the period of time.
According to him, he looks forward to continuation of such collaboration they have had in the past.
Speaking noted how many times they go to executive sessions. But the Liberian Senate Pro-Tempore said that their executive sessions are not secret sessions as has been thought by ordinary citizens.
“Our Executive Session Are In the Interest ofLiberians,” Senator Chie claimed.