President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has issued a proclamation recalling the 55th Legislature for an extended session to address critical national matters requiring immediate attention. This decision underscores the administration’s focus on legislative collaboration to advance Liberia’s governance and development agenda.
The recall is in line with An Act Setting the Calendar of Adjournment for the Legislature, which stipulates that the third constituency break begins no later than the second Friday of December and ends on the Friday preceding the second working Monday of January. Typically, the First Regular Session of the 55th Legislature would have adjourned by December 13, 2024, allowing lawmakers to commence their recess.
However, President Boakai’s decision invokes Article 32(b) of the Liberian Constitution, which empowers the President to extend or call a special session of the Legislature to address urgent matters of national concern. This provision allows the President to act on his initiative or upon receiving a certificate signed by at least one-fourth of the membership of each House.
On December 12, 2024, a Certificate of Extension, endorsed by the required number of lawmakers, was presented to the President. In accordance with the constitutional mandate, President Boakai proclaimed within 48 hours, officially extending the First Regular Session of the 55th Legislature.
While the proclamation does not specify the agenda for the extended session, it is widely anticipated that lawmakers will address pressing national priorities. Historically, such sessions have focused on budgetary appropriations, legislative reforms, national security matters, and other critical policies that shape Liberia’s development trajectory.
The extension emphasizes the need for urgent action on unresolved issues, reflecting the administration’s commitment to ensuring that governance continues seamlessly, even during periods designated for constituency engagement. President Boakai’s swift response to the Legislature’s request signals his determination to foster legislative cooperation and address Liberia’s pressing challenges.
The recall places added responsibility on lawmakers, who must balance legislative duties with their ongoing constituency needs. With public anticipation high, lawmakers are expected to deliberate on policies that will significantly impact Liberia’s economic and social stability.
Observers view the extended session as an opportunity for lawmakers to demonstrate accountability and focus on advancing national interests. Key areas likely to dominate discussions include resource allocation, infrastructural development, and reforms necessary to strengthen governance institutions.
President Boakai’s decision to recall the 55th Legislature highlights his administration’s proactive approach to addressing national priorities. The extended session provides a critical platform for collaboration between the executive and legislative branches to tackle issues important to the Liberian people.
The public awaits updates from the extended session, with hopes that the Legislature will seize this moment to enact policies and laws that promote sustainable growth and improve the welfare of all Liberians. As the session progresses, the actions of the 55th Legislature will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Liberia’s governance and development in the coming year.
