The Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) has bestowed one of its highest honors on the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, recognizing his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to national development, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
During its 35th General Assembly held at the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary in Paynesville, the Council honored Speaker Koon with the title “Astute Statesman for National Development” and formally inducted him into the Bishop George D. Brown Hall of Fame, a space reserved for distinguished Liberians whose contributions have significantly impacted the Church, the State, and society.
The four-day assembly brought together over 250 delegates from across Liberia, including clergy, women, youth, and county chapters, all gathered under the theme:
“Reconciliation: Acknowledging the Past, Accepting the Present, and Adjusting for the Future with True Healing,”
with scriptural reflection drawn from Ephesians 5:14-16.
Though unable to attend the ceremony in person, Speaker Koon was represented by Hon. James Kolleh, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules, Order and Administration. Hon. Kolleh extended the Speaker’s deep appreciation to the Council and reaffirmed his commitment to healing national wounds, fostering reconciliation within the Legislature, and promoting a governance culture rooted in inclusivity and unity.
“Speaker Koon remains committed to serving Liberia with humility and purpose, ensuring that national development is felt across every corner of the country,” Rep. Kolleh said on his behalf.
The Bishop George D. Brown Hall of Fame, named in honor of the first president of the Liberia Council of Churches, was established in 2023 at the Georgia Patten United Methodist Church. It seeks to immortalize individuals whose lives and work have helped shape Liberia’s moral and national conscience.
With this honor, Speaker Koon joins a revered list of past inductees including:
H.E. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Jubwe Dr. Togba Nah Tipoteh Mr. Kenneth Y. Best Rev. Dr. Fidon Mwombeki Dr. A. Nadu Cooper Cllr. Dr. Pearl Brown Bull Hon. Wilmot Paye
All of whom were praised for their enduring contributions to justice, peace, and national transformation.
As Liberia continues to navigate the challenges of post-conflict recovery, political transition, and social healing, the Liberia Council of Churches emphasized that now more than ever, the country needs statesmen and women who lead with vision, humility, and a spirit of reconciliation.
