-Concludes 54th, conducts Speaker, Deputy Speakership elections
The 55th Legislature of the Republic of Liberia is set to commence its official duties on Monday, 15 January, in accordance with the constitutional mandate outlined in the Liberian 1986 Constitution article 32 a. This annual assembly, stipulated to occur every year on the second working Monday in January, marks the conclusion of the 54th Legislature’s tenure and the initiation of the new legislative session.
Following the adjournment of the 54th Legislature under the leadership of Speaker Bhofal Chambers, the Chief Clerk Mildred Siryon will assume control and administer the oath of office to the incoming members of the House. This solemn pledge requires each member of the House of Representatives to vow to uphold and defend the Constitution and the Laws of the Republic of Liberia, as well as to faithfully discharge the duties and functions of their office.
The process, as detailed in the House’s rules under section 11, titled “TAKING OF OATH,” outlines the mandatory oath or affirmation that must be taken by every representative before assuming their seat.
Section 11.1 of the House’s rules specifically states: “Each member of the House of Representatives, before taking his/her seat, shall take an oath or affirmation to uphold and defend the Constitution and the Laws of the Republic of Liberia, as well as to faithfully discharge the duties and functions of the office as a member of the House of Representatives.”
Once the oath has been administered to the incoming members, the Chief Clerk will officially announce the House’s temporary lack of leadership. In light of this announcement, an election for the position of Speaker will be conducted, allowing the members to democratically determine their new leader.
The commencement of the 55th Legislature represents a significant moment in Liberia’s democratic process, as newly elected representatives take on the responsibility of shaping the legislative agenda and working towards the betterment of the Republic.
