”OUR PEOPLE ARE TIRED OF EXCUSES” VP KOUNG CAUTIONS SENATORS
By Laymah Kollie
Capitol Hill: The Vice President of the Republic of Liberia, President of the Liberian Senate Jeremiah Kpan Koung, has sent out a wake-up call to the plenary of the Liberian Senate to work harder in meeting the expectations of Liberians.
VP Koung, in a special remark on Thursday, January 30,2025, echoed the plight of the suffering majority and urged them to make meaningful decisions that will positively impact ordinary citizens. Vice President mentioned that the work of the Senate is critical to the governance and development of the nation, and as representatives of the people, senators bear the responsibility of crafting laws that reflect their needs, advocating for policies that advance their prosperity, and holding the executive accountable in the interest of transparency and good governance.
He stressed that the Senate has returned to these sacred chambers ready to offer solutions for the challenges Liberia faces, rededicate themselves to the principles of good governance, and uphold the sanctity of the constitution for a united and prosperous Liberia. “Our people are tired of excuses, they are anxious for change, and they are ready for economic transformation. Let us remember that the people are the true custodians of our nation’s peace, and their interests should form the basis of our collective actions and decisions”.
The Liberian Leader believed that through unity, the legislature can tackle the pressing issues of Liberia and build a brighter future for generations to come. Admonishing that together in unity, Senate Plenary can turn challenges into opportunities, divisions into unity, and aspirations into achievements. ”The future of Liberia is bright, and it is within our power to make it so. Honorable Senators, I urge us all to approach this session with a renewed sense of patriotism, integrity, and dedication. Let us be bold in our vision, decisive in our actions, and unwavering in our commitment to the service of our nation”.
Vice President Jeremiah Koung then reaffirmed the Legislature’s commitment to working for the Liberian people. ”To the people of Liberia, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to being your voice, your advocates, and your defenders. Your trust in us is our most valuable mandate, and we will strive each day to honor it”. However, commenting on the current impasse at the House of Representatives, the VP said it is a test of democracy.
He cautioned Lawmakers to put National interest over personal interest. ”Our Nation’s democracy has been tested over the last few months with the political impasse on Capitol Hill and the unfortunate fire incident. While we continue to receive commendations for our recent peaceful democratic transitions, we must pursue the path of peace, nation-building, reconciliation, and sacrifice personal interests for national interests”.
Highlighting the recent launch of the ARREST Agenda, Koung encouraged Senators to join hands in implementing the plight for the betterment of the Country. Additionally, the agenda is a national vision that offers the best pathway to achieve rapid economic transformation and address the socio-economic needs of the people. “I call on you, Distinguished Senators, to join us and support this national development agenda irrespective of your political persuasion and allegiance. We must cultivate a new mindset and approach that the welfare of our people should be at the center of our policy debates and decisions”.