By By Staff Writer
Liberia’s Vice President, Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr., has challenged members of the Senate to rise above partisan politics and govern with courage, unity, and patriotism as the 55th National Legislature formally opened its Third Regular Session on Monday.
Delivering a powerful address before the full Senate, Vice President Koung described the moment as a defining chapter in Liberia’s democratic journey—one that demands “courage over comfort, unity over division, and patriotism over partisanship.”
He hailed the Senate as a central pillar of national governance, noting its role in shaping laws, safeguarding accountability, and preserving the promise of Liberia’s Constitution.
“This Senate stands as a guardian of accountability and a voice of our people,” Koung said. “Through your work, the hopes and dignity of Liberians are protected.”
A Billion-Dollar Budget, A New National Statement
The Vice President singled out the passage of Liberia’s first-ever national budget exceeding US$1 billion as a historic milestone, calling it not just a financial achievement but a bold declaration of national ambition.
According to him, the landmark budget signals that Liberia is now prepared to think bigger, act decisively, and pursue sustainable development with renewed confidence.
“This was a statement of national intent,” Koung stressed. “It shows that Liberia is ready to move forward with seriousness and purpose.”
Call for Constructive Politics
In a balanced tone, Koung praised the opposition for its constitutional role in holding government accountable but cautioned against destructive politics.
He warned that personal attacks, false allegations, and reckless rhetoric weaken democracy and betray the expectations of ordinary Liberians.
“Accountability is strongest when it is rooted in dialogue, evidence, and love for country,” he said. “Liberia gains nothing from politics of insults and misinformation.”
At the same time, he urged members of the ruling party to lead with discipline, humility, and results, reminding them that leadership must be measured by real progress, not empty promises.
Boakai Government ‘Fully Committed’ to ARREST Agenda
Vice President Koung reaffirmed that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. remains firmly committed to the full implementation of the government’s ARREST Agenda, a development blueprint aimed at restoring public trust, growing the economy, and improving the lives of Liberians.
He acknowledged the country’s pressing challenge of job creation, but assured citizens that deliberate steps are being taken through the new national budget to attract investment, expand electricity access, boost agriculture, strengthen infrastructure, and create space for private sector growth.
“These are not overnight solutions,” Koung said, “but they are the foundations for long-term prosperity.”
A Session of National Renewal
As the Third Regular Session begins, Koung called on lawmakers to remember that the Liberian people are watching—not demanding perfection, but sincerity, cooperation, and tangible progress.
He urged Senators to make this legislative year one of maturity, unity, and national renewal.
“Let this session be remembered as the moment Liberia chose dialogue over division, service over self, and nation over party,” the Vice President concluded.
