By Sampat JMB Kpakimah
Monrovia, Liberia – The 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) will be delivered in the courtyard of the Capitol Building on Monday, January 26, following fire damage to the traditional venue, the Joint Chambers. The relocation ensures the constitutional mandate for the President’s annual report is fulfilled.
At the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Thursday, Mr. Robert Benjamin Haynes, Director of Press for the House of Representatives, reaffirmed the Legislature’s commitment to upholding Article 58 of the 1986 Constitution. President Joseph N. Boakai is scheduled to deliver his third Annual Message to the Liberian people during a Joint Session of the 55th Legislature.
Due to the open-air setting, extensive preparations are underway to ensure safety, order, and seamless coordination. Mr. Haynes confirmed that the General Services Agency (GSA), the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), and other state institutions are collaboratively transforming the Capitol courtyard into a secure and dignified ceremonial venue.
Access to the venue will be strictly controlled. Only individuals with official invitations or pre-issued access passes will be admitted—a rule applying equally to members of the 55th Legislature, dignitaries, and the media.
Media accreditation is being coordinated by the House of Representatives in collaboration with the Executive Protection Service (EPS) and national security agencies. Accredited journalists must wear their passes visibly at all times.
Mr. Haynes urged all attendees, including journalists and the public, to fully cooperate with security and protocol personnel. He emphasized that the open setting necessitates heightened vigilance to ensure the safety of the President, the First Lady, dignitaries, and all citizens present.
For citizens unable to attend, the address will be broadcast live across the nation by the Liberia Broadcasting System (ELBC) and streamed on multiple media platforms, enabling Liberians at home and abroad to follow the proceedings.
The official program will commence at 2:30 p.m. with the ushering of invited guests and dignitaries. The arrival of the Diplomatic Corps, international partners, former heads of state, the Chief Justice, and Associate Justices will be announced by the Chief of Protocol.
President Boakai is expected to deliver his Annual Message promptly at 4:00 p.m., outlining the administration’s achievements, addressing national challenges, and presenting policy priorities for the coming year.
The Legislature has designated January 26 as a special working day. Legislative staff are encouraged to work from home and follow the address via radio broadcast. Normal legislative business will resume on Tuesday, January 27. In conclusion, Mr. Haynes assured the public of the Legislature’s full preparedness to host the President and called on all stakeholders to contribute to a peaceful, secure, and successful State of the Nation Address.
