House Resumes 3rd, Final Quarter 2025 -Speaker Koon Calls for Discipline, Reform, Unity

By H Matthew Turry

MONROVIA – The House of Representatives of the 55th Legislature resumed its 3rd and Final Quarter of the 2nd Session on Friday, October 10, 2025. In his opening address, Speaker Richard Koon emphasized the need for unity, patriotism, and discipline in the legislature.

The opening ceremony featured a series of ceremonial and legislative activities, including the hosting of the National Flag and the Fifteen Counties Flags, and a tour of the main Chambers, which is currently under renovation after being gutted by fire during the legislative impasse.

A Call for Unity and Patriotism

Speaker Koon urged his colleagues to continue working in the same spirit of purpose, unity, and patriotism.

“As we commence this third and final quarter of our second session, let us remain committed to our duties and responsibilities,” he said. “Our people are watching with great expectation, and it is our duty to deliver.”

The Speaker highlighted the ongoing completion and refurbishment of the main chamber of the House of Representatives as one of the legislature’s proudest achievements this year, saying, “This project is not merely about optics, but a testament to our commitment to restore dignity, order, and pride to the people’s House.”

Reforms and Legislative Priorities

Speaker Koon also called on the committee reviewing the Rules of the House to act swiftly and present the first draft of their proposed revisions to plenary during the next sitting.

He emphasized the importance of modernizing legislative procedures and aligning internal processes with best practices.

The Speaker also urged legislators to approach the budget hearing process with diligence and seriousness.

“The budget is not just a financial document, but a reflection of our values and priorities as a nation,” he said.

He highlighted key thematic areas that require attention, including health, education, and aviation.

Key Areas of Focus

In the health sector, Speaker Koon called for an increment in the allocation to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital, emphasizing the need to maintain its capacity to deliver quality healthcare.

On education, he stressed the importance of empowering the next generation with the tools to lead.

“The University of Liberia deserves our full attention,” he said. “Let us make provision for its infrastructural development and operational sustainability.”

The Speaker also emphasized the need to improve the safety and security of the Roberts International Airport, highlighting the importance of modern navigation aids and essential safety equipment.

In his concluding remarks, Speaker Koon urged his colleagues to work together as patriots, debating vigorously but respectfully. “Let us disagree, but never be divided,” he said. “Our collective actions in these chambers will define the kind of country we leave behind for the next generation.”

“Let us ensure that when the curtain falls on this second session, the people of Liberia will say with pride that our Representatives stood for us, spoke for us, and served us well,” the House Speaker asserted.