Abubakar Hashim
Looking splendid and glamorous, located opposite Liberia’s State House, locally called Mansion, the Capitol building is a tourist’s delight.
I drive in there every day to meet all shades of politicians, both in the ruling, opposition, and independent sides.
Today marks 76 years since this beautiful edifice was constructed on December 18, 1949.
Before this constitution, the Capitol had been in existence since 1848, when it produced its first Speaker, James B. McGill. Today, Richard Nagbe Koon is the Speaker of the 55th Legislature.
Significance of the Capitol
The Capitol is crucial in making laws and stabilizing the polity. In Liberia, the Speaker is the 3rd in command, after the President and the Vice President.
There is the Senate, but its leader, called Senate Portem, is not functionally superior to the Speaker.
When the President travels out of the country, he nominates a Minister to act, but in consultation with his vice president.
The Capitol Fire Inferno
In the early hours of December 18, 2024, exactly one year ago, fire broke out at the Capitol building. On the following day, President Boakai addressed the nation on the sad episode and called for thorough investigations.
However, it was also a joy for the nation, as the President announced to a devastated nation that Liberia was qualified for the MCC’s second compact, due to his outstanding performance in governance and development.
Today, 76 years on, the Capitol remains a symbol of pride and dignity to Liberia and its growing democratic credentials
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