The Liberian House of Representatives took significant steps in advancing the nation’s governance and tourism sectors by passing two important bills on September 3, 2024. These include the establishment of the Liberia National Tourism Authority and the ratification of the Presidential Transition Act. Both bills have now been forwarded to the Senate for approval.
The first bill, titled “An Act to Amend Title 30, Public Authorities Laws, Liberian Code of Law Revised, to Establish the Liberia National Tourism Authority,” was developed after thorough consultations and public hearings involving various stakeholders in the tourism sector. The Joint Committee on Information, Broadcasting, Culture and Tourism, Judiciary, and Internal Affairs played a key role in shaping this legislation.
Rep. Barnard Benson Jr. of Montserrado County District 17, who sponsored the bill, hailed its passage as a significant boost for the tourism industry. He pointed out that the creation of the Liberia National Tourism Authority will not only create jobs but also improve infrastructure and generate much-needed revenue. The bill, which aligns with an Executive-proposed version, aims to enhance Liberia’s appeal as a tourist destination, leveraging the country’s cultural and natural assets to drive economic growth and preserve its heritage.
According to Rep. Benson, the new authority will focus on promoting Liberia as a top destination, encouraging investment in the sector, regulating tourism activities, and ensuring sustainable management of the nation’s tourism resources.
In addition to the tourism bill, the House also passed the Presidential Transition Act, a measure designed to ensure a smooth and transparent transfer of power between administrations. This bill amends the Executive Law by adding a new Sub-Chapter “E,” known as the ‘Presidential Transition Act.’ The Joint Committee on Elections and Inauguration, Judiciary, Good Governance, and the Executive Committee carefully reviewed the bill to ensure it provided clear guidelines for transitions.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, in line with the 1986 Constitution and the ARREST Agenda, submitted several key pieces of legislation to the 55th Legislature, including the Presidential Transition Bill. Drafted by the Law Reform Commission of Liberia, this bill aims to provide a legal framework for the orderly transfer of power between democratically elected governments, ensuring continuity in governance and upholding democratic principles.
As the Senate prepares to review these landmark bills, the passage of both the Liberia National Tourism Authority Act and the Presidential Transition Act represents a forward-thinking approach to Liberia’s future, promoting both economic development and the integrity of its democratic processes.
Credit: FrontPage Africa
