By Archie Boan
The House of Representatives has endorsed a measure to repeal Article 11 of the Interim National Assembly Decree No. 8 of 1985-legislation that created the Bureau of State Enterprises Authority (SEAL).
The move clears the way for the establishment of a modern State-Owned Enterprises Authority of Liberia, designed to overhaul the management and oversight of government-owned corporations.
The decision was taken on Tuesday, 25 November, during the 12th Day Sitting of the 3rd Quarter of the 2nd Regular Session. Lawmakers acted after reviewing a detailed report from the Joint Committee on State Enterprises & Autonomous Agencies, Judiciary, and Good Governance & Government Reform.
The committee evaluated the proposed legislation titled: “An Act to Repeal Article 11 of the Interim National Assembly Decree No. 8 of 1985 Which Established the Bureau of State Enterprises Authority (SEAL).”
Submitted by the Executive Branch, the bill aims to strengthen the accountability, governance, and overall performance of Liberia’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
It would also update Title 30 of the Public Authorities Law and replace the decades-old systems created during the 1985 interim government period.
After assessing the draft law, the Joint Committee recommended its passage, noting that the reforms would modernize SOE oversight and ensure more effective administration of public assets.
In its final remark, the committee stated:
“Following comprehensive scrutiny of the Act… the Joint Committee recommends that plenary approve this legislation in line with the provisions outlined.”
Plenary subsequently adopted the committee’s findings, following a motion by Lofa County District #4 Representative Hon. Gizzie Kollince.
The Speaker of the House has instructed the Secretariat to prepare the engrossed bill and forward it to the Liberian Senate for concurrence.
