Senate Pro-Tempore promises stricter oversight, reforms in 2025

Monrovia – Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence has promised sweeping reforms, accelerated legislative action, and stricter oversight on national projects during her address at the opening of the 2nd Session of the 55th Legislature yesterday.

In her address, Pro-Tempore Karnga-Lawrence recounted the achievements from the past year and outlined plans to address key challenges ahead. Reflecting on 2024, she praised her colleagues for their dedication and collaborative spirit, emphasizing that their unity had been critical to the Senate’s accomplishments.

The Pro-Tempore reported that the Senate passed 27 legislations, ratified 18 agreements, amended three existing laws, enacted six new laws, and confirmed 996 nominees in 2024. However, she noted that 40 bills remain in committee rooms and called for immediate action to clear the backlog. Committees have been directed to submit weekly progress reports starting January 21, 2025, with the warning that non-compliance could lead to the establishment of ad hoc committees to expedite the process.

Among the priority bills for 2025 are the Liberia Tourism Authority Act, the Liberia Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Commission Act, the Presidential Transitional Act of 2024, amendments to the Criminal Procedure Law on the Statute of Limitations, and the Zoning Law of Liberia 2024. These legislative priorities reflect the Senate’s focus on economic growth, governance, and legal reforms.

Karnga-Lawrence also emphasized the Senate’s oversight role, particularly in monitoring the implementation of the national budget. She mandated committees to track sectoral programs and demand quarterly performance reports from ministries and agencies. The Ministry of Finance has been instructed to provide quarterly disbursement updates to ensure transparency and efficiency in the execution of national projects.

On governance and financial management reforms, the Pro-Tempore outlined efforts to enhance transparency and operational efficiency within the Senate. Progress has been made on implementing 174 recommendations from the General Auditing Commission, with a target to complete 50 percent by early 2025. Additional measures include the creation of committees for procurement, budgeting, IT, and strategic planning. Manuals for financial procedures, human resources, and risk management are being developed, while Senate staff have received training in operational planning and financial reporting. A biometric system for staff attendance has also been introduced, along with a digitization strategy to automate Senate processes.

To strengthen governance in the long term, the Senate is developing a five-year strategic plan (2025–2030) aimed at modernizing its operations and enhancing oversight capabilities. Governance expert Dr. Yarsuo Weh-Dorliae is leading this initiative, with the launch expected in six weeks.

Infrastructure upgrades are also a key focus, with renovations to the Senate chambers underway. Additional improvements include the installation of solar-powered streetlights, enhanced water and sanitation facilities, and the introduction of CCTV surveillance to boost security. Collaboration with the Liberia National Police will further ensure a secure working environment.

Karnga-Lawrence stressed the importance of collaboration to achieve national development goals, expressing optimism for a productive and impactful year ahead. “We look forward to a more productive year, strengthened relationships, and unwavering commitment to serving our country,” she stated.