Published: April 7, 2026
CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – President Joseph N. Boakai Sr. has abruptly recalled lawmakers to Capitol Hill, invoking constitutional authority to fast-track urgent economic decisions on new banknotes and government spending, even as a brewing political controversy threatens to overshadow the agenda.
In a formal communication to House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, the President activated Article 32(b) of the 1986 Constitution, directing the Legislature to reconvene from April 9 to April 23, 2026, to address what he described as pressing national concerns.
“This session is convened to deliberate and act upon matters of urgent national concern,” President Boakai wrote, underscoring the gravity of the moment.
He stressed the urgency of the proposals, adding: “These proposals are time-sensitive and cannot await the resumption of the regular session in May.”
Special Session Agenda Takes Shape
The President outlined key items for consideration, stating: “The agenda for this Special Session shall include, but not be limited to, consideration of the following urgent legislative proposals:
- Proposal for the printing of additional Liberian Dollar banknotes;
- Proposal for the passage of the 2026 Supplementary Budget; and
- Other matters of national urgency.”
Constitutional Power in Motion
Article 32(b) grants the President authority to convene the Legislature on extraordinary occasions—a rarely used provision that signals urgency at the highest level of governance.
By invoking this clause, the Boakai administration is accelerating legislative action on critical economic interventions, particularly plans to inject additional Liberian dollar banknotes into circulation and pass a supplementary budget.
Economic Stakes and Public Concern
At the center of the session is the government’s proposal to print additional banknotes, aimed at addressing persistent cash shortages and stabilizing the economy.
However, the move is already stirring concern, given Liberia’s history with currency management and widespread public skepticism about monetary expansion.
The supplementary budget is also expected to fill spending gaps while realigning fiscal priorities with current economic realities.
Political Undercurrents Emerge
Despite the economic focus, tensions within the Legislature may complicate proceedings.
Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah is facing mounting criticism over remarks related to the Liberia–Guinea border—comments that some lawmakers say could undermine national unity.
Speaking on Spoon TV after returning from Ghana, Kolubah declared:
“We need to be very frank with the Liberian people… from my information… that place is for the Guineans.”
The statement, made amid ongoing border tensions in the Sorlumba area of Lofa County, has triggered backlash among his colleagues.
Calls for Sanctions Intensify
Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo K. Mulbah has formally petitioned House leadership to act against Kolubah.
In a March 22 communication, Mulbah called for Kolubah’s suspension or expulsion, describing the remarks as “reckless” and incompatible with legislative responsibility.
Mulbah argued that the comments undermine Liberia’s sovereignty, violate Kolubah’s oath of office, and risk inciting unrest in border communities.
He cited Article 76 of the Constitution, warning that advocating for the surrender of Liberian territory could amount to treason under Liberian law.
He also referenced the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), cautioning against statements that could incite hostility.
Beyond sanctions, Mulbah is demanding a public apology from Kolubah reaffirming his commitment to Liberia’s territorial integrity.
A Critical Test for Governance
The convergence of urgent fiscal decisions and rising political tensions sets the stage for a high-stakes Special Session.
For President Boakai, the move represents a decisive effort to assert control over economic policy through constitutional means. For lawmakers, it is a test of discipline—whether they can prioritize national economic recovery over internal political disputes.
As the April 9 session approaches, all eyes will be on Capitol Hill to see whether urgency drives unity—or deepens division.
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