Speaker Koon Pledges Full Legislative Support for Unity Party Government

Grand Gedeh County:  House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon has vowed that his leadership will continue to work tirelessly to support the Unity Party–led government’s ARREST agenda, promising that the Legislature will be a dependable partner in advancing the nation’s development priorities.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, December 18, in Grand Gedeh, Speaker Koon said his leadership remains firmly pro-government. “We are committed to ensuring that the promises made to Liberians are not just words on paper but actions that improve lives. My team and I will work hand-in-hand with the Executive to ensure effective governance,” he said.

He explained that his ascendency to the speakership was prompted by challenges faced by the Executive under former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. “During the previous leadership, there were numerous difficulties surrounding the passage of key legislative instruments. Bills critical to national development were delayed, and this hampered the government’s ability to deliver on its agenda,” he noted.

Speaker Koon argued that an opposition-led House makes it difficult for a government to function efficiently. “It is extremely challenging for any government to operate effectively with an opposition speaker. The Executive requires a cooperative Legislature to pass laws that benefit all Liberians. Unfortunately, the prior leadership was often bogged down by conflicts of interest and political distractions,” he said.

Addressing critics who have referred to him as a “regime speaker,” Koon stressed that the label does not imply a lack of independence. “Some have called me a regime speaker. Let me be clear this does not mean I am a rubber stamp or that I lack independence. It reflects my commitment to collaboration. My goal is to ensure that the Legislature works in harmony with the Executive for the betterment of our people,” he said.

He further assured Liberians that his tenure would focus on legislative efficiency. “We will prioritize passing bills that create jobs, improve infrastructure, strengthen education, and enhance healthcare. Governance must be about results, not politics,” he added.

Political analysts in Monrovia have interpreted Speaker Koon’s remarks as a clear signal that the House will take a more cooperative stance with the Executive than in previous years. Observers say his commitment to the ARREST agenda an initiative focusing on Accountability, Reform, Economic growth, Security, and Transparency could accelerate legislative action on key government programs.

Speaker Koon concluded, “Our mission is simple: deliver tangible progress to Liberians. We owe it to our citizens to ensure that government policies translate into real benefits in their daily lives. That is the essence of effective governance.”