The House of Representatives of the 55th Legislature has convened in Margibi County, commencing from Friday, June 20 to Sunday, June 23, 2024, for a critical Legislative Reform Forum themed “Refined Legislation, Adequate Constituents Representation, & Effective Oversight.”
The three days reform forum aims at focusing on legislative reform and modernization.
The gathering marked a pivotal moment for legislators to deliberate on enhancing their roles and responsibilities in serving the Liberian people.
Opened with a poignant reflection on the legislative journey since the inception of the post-war legislature in 2006, the Body opt to generate ideas on robust engagement and making laws to have triggered down effects on the lives of Liberians.
Members of this August Body has acknowledged the challenges and achievements spanning over 18 years, highlighting the passage of 128 laws, ratification of 200 international instruments, and various amendments and resolutions.
While applauding these milestones, concerns were raised regarding administrative challenges and turnover rates that have impacted legislative continuity.
Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and other senior officials underscored the importance of modernizing legislative operations to meet contemporary demands. They acknowledged previous efforts, such as the Modernization Plan initiated in 2006 with international support, aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency within the legislative framework. However, they emphasized the need for renewed focus and implementation to address lingering challenges effectively.
The agenda for the forum encompassed a comprehensive series of sessions designed to equip legislators with enhanced legislative drafting skills, deeper insights into budget formulation and oversight, and strategies for strengthening constituent representation and accountability.
Sessions facilitated by experts from UNDP, UNW, NIMD, and local institutions covered topics ranging from gender equality to electoral reforms, reinforcing the legislature’s commitment to inclusive governance and responsiveness.
During deliberations, emphasis was placed on fostering unity amidst diversity among political parties and backgrounds within the legislature.
Participants are being engaged in constructive dialogue aimed at fostering a collaborative environment conducive to achieving legislative goals and priorities.
Key outcomes expected of the forum include a commitment to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and effective governance.
Plans were outlined to continue legislative reforms, including amendments to house rules and procedures to streamline committee work and legislative processes.
Participants also discussed strategies to enhance public trust through improved communication and engagement with constituents.
House of Representatives of the 55th Legislature affirmed its dedication to implementing the insights gained from the forum to drive meaningful legislative reforms.
As Liberia continues its journey of post-war recovery and development, the legislature stands poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a more prosperous and inclusive future for all Liberians.
The forum is also expected to see a renewed sense of purpose and determination among legislators to uphold their mandate diligently and effectively serve the interests of the Liberian people.
With expressed optimism about the transformative impact of the forum’s deliberations on legislative practice and governance in Liberia can be rationalize if implementation ls are coined properly.
The House of Representatives looks forward to building on these discussions and collaborations in the coming months, as they strive to enact laws that reflect the aspirations and priorities of the Liberian people.
