MONROVIA, LIBERIA-President Joseph Boakai is expected to deliver his annual address to the Second Joint Session of the 55th National Legislature today, January 27.
According to the Executive Mansion, the theme for this year’s message is: “Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda.”
The Liberian Leader is expected to address critical national issues, including progress made by the Liberian Government, since assuming office.
During his previous State of the Nation Address in 2024, President Boakai reported that the state of the economy was a cause for concern, with many citizens facing perennial unemployment and economic instability.
The President also vowed to leverage Information Communication Technology (ICT) in creating jobs, especially for the youth. Delivering on that promise, the government, through the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), trained up to ten thousand young people in various digital skills.
On Agriculture, President Boakai committed his government to harnessing the right resources and strengthening collaboration with international partners and local farmers to improve production.
During the first SONA in 2024, the President also underscored the need to establish the Office of the Ombudsman, which was later established by his administration with Cllr. Findley Kangar was appointed as the head of the office.
Road Infrastructure Development also formed part of President Boakai’s first annual message to the country, assuring that the expansion and improvement of the road network remains a top priority for his administration.
On the issue of illicit Drugs and Substance abuse as a Public Health Emergency establish a multi-sectoral steering committee to help address the situation.
Meanwhile, massive preparations are advancing for the President’s Second SONA today, January 27.
At the same time, the National Legislature has reaffirmed its preparedness to receive President Boakai today, for his State of the Nation Address at the grounds of the Capitol.
The SONA is in keeping with Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution which states that the President shall, on the Fourth Monday in January of each year, present the administration’s legislative programs for the ensuing session and shall once a year report to the National Legislature on the state of the Republic.
The National Legislature has already released a special protocol for President Boakai’s Second State of the Nation Address, since assuming office.
According to the protocol, members of the Diplomatic Corps, heads of international organizations, as well as past and present senior government officials, among others, will form part of the invitees attending the event.
A release from the National Legislature states that due to the heightened security arrangements, access to the Capitol premises will be strictly regulated by state securities.
The release also assured the public that the President’s annual message will be live on various media platforms, mainly radio, television, and social media to allow citizens and residents to access the message in their respective locations.
By: Vasta Tarlue/Frederick Teegwiah, Jr.