“VP Koung urged Senators to put national interests above personal gains”

Monrovia, Liberia: In a powerful address today, Vice President Honorable Jeremiah Kpan Koung spoke at the commencement of the 55th National Legislature and the 2nd Regular Session of the Liberian Senate. The event, held in the sacred chambers of the Senate, marked an important moment in the nation’s democratic journey.

Opening his remarks, Vice President Koung expressed a deep sense of duty and humility, underscoring the collective responsibility of public servants to safeguard the interests and aspirations of the Liberian people. He began by paying tribute to the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson, a revered statesman whose absence has left a significant void in the Senate. Reflecting on recent challenges, Vice President Koung acknowledged the difficulties Liberia has faced, including the political impasse on Capitol Hill and the devastating fire incident. Despite these setbacks, he commended the nation for its peaceful democratic transitions and called for unity, reconciliation, and a renewed focus on nation-building.

Vice President Koung urged the Senators to put national interests above personal gains, emphasizing the Senate’s vital role in governance, development, and accountability. He highlighted the recent launch of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, a national vision aimed at achieving rapid economic transformation and addressing the socio-economic needs of the Liberian people. He appealed to all Senators, regardless of political affiliation, to support this agenda and work collaboratively to center the welfare of the people in all policy debates and decisions. “Our people are tired of excuses, anxious for change, and ready for economic transformation,” he declared.

In his remarks, Vice President Koung reminded the Senate that the people are the true custodians of Liberia’s peace, and that their interests must guide all actions and decisions. He called for a renewed sense of patriotism, integrity, and dedication among the Senators, urging them to approach the session with boldness and decisiveness. As he concluded, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to being the voice and advocate of the Liberian people, expressing optimism for the future. He reminded the Senate that through unity, challenges could be turned 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,” Vice President Koung concluded. “May God bless the Liberian Senate, the Republic of Liberia, and all its people.