HoR Champions U.S. Collaboration to Modernize Legislature
Z. Benjamin Keibah
MONROVIA, LIBERIA: In a decisive move to strengthen Liberia’s legislative capacity, House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon has welcomed Elias Gerasoulis, Chief Executive Officer of Washington & Madison Limited Liability Company (MLLC), in Monrovia, marking a critical step toward institutional modernization and enhanced lawmaking efficiency.
The engagement coincides with preparations for a Legislative Training Program in the United States, scheduled from August 30 to September 6, 2026, which will convene Liberian lawmakers for intensive exposure to international best practices in governance, legislative drafting, oversight, and constituent engagement.
During the visit, Gerasoulis observed plenary proceedings and lauded the openness and professionalism of the Liberian Legislature, noting, “We are deeply grateful for the warm reception and the opportunity to witness your legislative processes firsthand. This is the beginning of what we believe will be a strong and mutually beneficial partnership.”
He emphasized that the upcoming program will combine interactive workshops, policy dialogues, and study visits to U.S. governance institutions, offering practical insights tailored to Liberia’s legislative needs.
Speaker Koon described the initiative as timely and strategic, highlighting its potential to enhance transparency, accountability, and the quality of representation within the House.
“We see this as a significant opportunity to strengthen the capacity of our lawmakers and improve oversight,” he affirmed, disclosing that a dedicated team of legislators will coordinate closely with Washington & Madison LLC to finalize the program and ensure measurable outcomes.
The engagement is part of broader efforts by Speaker Koon to modernize Liberia’s legislative framework through international collaboration. In recent months, he hosted a delegation from the U.S. House Democracy Partnership to explore short-term technical assistance aimed at increasing citizen participation in the national budget process while advancing inclusive governance systems that actively engage civil society.
In addition to U.S.-based initiatives, Koon has pursued diverse diplomatic and institutional reforms. On February 13, 2026, he reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to the One China Policy during a Lunar New Year celebration, emphasizing parliamentary diplomacy’s role in addressing global challenges such as climate change and security.
Domestically, he has advocated for a digital overhaul of the House, highlighting deficiencies including nonfunctional microphones, undigitized voting records, and the absence of a public-facing website as key obstacles to effective governance.
Further structural reforms under Koon’s leadership include a proposed national referendum to revise “obsolete” provisions of the Liberian Constitution and embed a 50-year development roadmap into law.
Recognizing the need for strengthened institutional capacity, the Speaker also announced 50 educational scholarships for House staff to bolster professional efficiency and legislative operations, underscoring a long-term commitment to internal reform and sustainable governance.
