House Passes Presidential Transition Act and Tourism Bill; Sent to Liberian Senate for Concurrence

By: Jeremiah Sackie Cooper
Gmail: jeremiahcooper105@gmail.com

Liberia – The Plenary of the House of Representatives of the 55th National Legislature has passed the Presidential Transition Act.

Plenary of the House took the decision on Tuesday September 3, 2024 during the 2nd day of its 2nd extraordinary session.

According to plenary, the passage of the presidential transition act is a significant piece of legislation aimed at ensuring a smooth and orderly transfer of power between outgoing and incoming administrations in Liberia.

The bill, which amends Title 12, Chapter 1, Part 1 of the Executive Law, introduces a new sub-chapter titled “The Presidential Transition Act.”

The primary objective of this act is to provide a legal framework that guarantees continuity and upholds democratic principles during the transition of presidential power.

The Presidential Transition Bill was one of several key legislative proposals submitted by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to the 55th Legislature. Crafted by the Law Reform Commission of Liberia, the bill was designed to eliminate disruptions often associated with changes in government. It aligns Liberia’s practices with international standards for democratic transitions.

After its introduction, the bill was referred to a Joint Committee on Elections and Inauguration, Judiciary, Good Governance, and the Executive Committee for thorough review and legislative action.

Following deliberations, the committee recommended the bill’s passage, recognizing its importance in safeguarding the democratic process.

The Presidential Transition Act is expected to set a precedent for future transitions, providing clear guidelines and structures to facilitate a seamless transfer of power and strengthen Liberia’s democratic governance. The act it is is inline with the constitutional mandate and the government’s ARREST Agenda.

Additionally, the 55th House of Representatives has passed the national tourism bill.

Members of the House of Representatives unanimously voted for the passage of the bill, establishing the National Tourism Authority.

The Bill titled An Act to Amend Title 30, Public Authorities Laws Liberian Code of Law Revised Establish in Lieu The Liberian National Tourism Authority was passed following recommendations contained in a report from the Joint Committee on Information, Broadcast, Culture and Tourism, Judiciary and Internal Affairs.

Also, series of public hearing was conducted amongst stakeholders and experts in the tourism sector.

Since the passage of the bill, it has been welcome by members of the House.

Rep. Bernard Benson Jr, of Electoral District 17, Montserrado County and the House Chair on Information, Broadcast, Culture and Tourism describes the passage of the law as a breakthrough for the sector in creating job opportunities and contribute to local infrastructure as well as income generation.

“This is a very great. The tourism sector is an important sector that has not been prioritize in Liberia”, he added.

Meanwhile, the presidential transition act and the national tourism bill have been forwarded to the Liberian Senate for Concurrence.