By James T. Brooks
In a decisive move to address mounting economic pressures, President Joseph N. Boakai Sr. has officially recalled lawmakers to Capitol Hill, invoking his constitutional authority to fast-track critical decisions regarding government spending and the national currency. By activating Article 32(b) of the 1986 Constitution, the President has directed the Legislature to reconvene for a special session running from April 9 to April 23, 2026. In a formal communication to House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, President Boakai emphasized that the matters at hand are of such urgent national concern that they cannot wait until the regular legislative session resumes in May.
The primary focus of this extraordinary session involves two major economic interventions: a proposal to print additional Liberian dollar banknotes and the passage of the 2026 Supplementary Budget. The administration views the injection of new currency as a necessary step to alleviate persistent cash shortages and stabilize the domestic economy. Meanwhile, the supplementary budget is intended to close existing spending gaps and realign fiscal priorities with the country’s current economic realities. While these measures are framed as essential for national recovery, they are already meeting a degree of public skepticism due to Liberia’s complex history with currency management and monetary expansion.
However, the pursuit of these economic goals may be complicated by brewing political controversy within the halls of the Legislature. Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah has come under intense fire for recent comments regarding the Liberia–Guinea border. Following a trip to Ghana, Kolubah suggested in a televised interview that contested land in the Sorlumba area of Lofa County actually belongs to Guinea. These remarks have triggered a sharp backlash from his colleagues, who argue that such statements undermine the nation’s sovereignty and risk inciting unrest in sensitive border communities.
The fallout from Kolubah’s comments has led to formal calls for disciplinary action, spearheaded by Representative Sumo K. Mulbah of Montserrado County District #3. In a petition to House leadership, Mulbah described the remarks as reckless and a violation of the legislative oath of office, even suggesting that advocating for the surrender of Liberian territory could fall under the constitutional definition of treason. Beyond the threat of suspension or expulsion, Mulbah is demanding a public apology and a reaffirmation of Kolubah’s commitment to the country’s territorial integrity, citing both domestic law and international covenants against the incitement of hostility.
As the April 9 start date approaches, the convergence of these urgent fiscal priorities and internal political strife creates a high-stakes environment for the Boakai administration. The upcoming session represents a significant test of governance, forcing lawmakers to decide whether they can maintain the discipline required to pass essential economic legislation or if personal and territorial disputes will derail the proceedings. For the public, the session remains a focal point for determining whether the government can effectively assert control over the nation’s financial future amidst a climate of rising political tension.
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