Monrovia – The 55th Legislature has confirmed that President Joseph Nyumah Boakai will deliver his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 27, 2025, at the Capitol grounds.
The decision to host the annual event outdoors according to a joint Press Release was made due to an alleged arson attack on the William R. Tolbert Joint Chamber, the usual venue for such events, on December 18, 2024.
The Capitol grounds hold a significant and controversial history for President Boakai. It was at this very location, during his inauguration, that the President fainted due to severe heat. At that time, he was 79 years old. Now at 80, the decision to return to this venue has sparked concern over his safety and well-being, given the event will be held around the same time and date of the inauguration in January 2024.
In a joint press release, the Legislature explained that heightened security measures would be implemented ahead of the event. Access to the Capitol grounds will be strictly controlled, with only those holding official invitations or passes allowed on the premises. The public has been encouraged to follow the proceedings through live broadcasts on radio, television, and social media.
The SONA is a constitutional mandate under Article 58 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution. It requires the President to outline the administration’s legislative agenda for the year and report on the state of the Republic. Despite the logistical challenges posed by the attack on the Joint Chamber, the Legislature assured citizens of their preparedness to host the event.
There were previous reports that this year’s SONA would be held at the Centennial Pavilion on Ashmun Street in Monrovia. The latest announcement from the Legislature marks a backstep to that report, confirming the event will instead be held outdoors at the Capitol grounds.
