– Dashes Costa and others’ hope
By Jerromie S. Walters
MONROVIA – President Joseph Boakai has nominated Samuel A. Stevquoah as the new Minister of State for Presidential Affairs. This selection, disclosed on Sunday, September 7, 2025, via the Executive Mansion, fills the vacancy left by the passing of the late Sylvester Grisby last month after a protracted illness but ignores a golden opportunity to have a female Minister of State for Presidential Affairs.
A seasoned administrator with extensive experience across both the public and private sectors, Stevquoah’s career is distinguished by his strategic thinking and profound commitment to public service. He most recently served as Minister of State Without Portfolio for Special Services, a role in which he managed select presidential projects, aided in shaping national policy, evaluated government initiatives, and represented the President at high-level forums.
However, there are still some who see this differently.
Many believe that in President Joseph Boakai’s administration, Mamaka Bility, the current Minister of State Without Portfolio has steadily emerged as a linchpin of policy coordination and diplomatic engagement.
Another personal who appeared confifent is Henry P. Costa, the outspoken political commentator and former opposition ally.
Costa, widely credited for rebranding President Joseph Boakai’s presidential aspirations during the 2023 campaign, later fell out with the then-Vice President, now President Boakai, amid internal tensions. Despite their past disagreements, Costa recently announced a public reconciliation with the President, describing their reunion as “heartfelt and solemn”.
Sources close to Costa claim he was confident of being nominated to the influential ministerial post following the passing of Hon. Sylvester Grigsby. However, insiders allege that Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung may have played a role in swaying the President against Costa’s appointment—a claim that remains unverified but has stirred speculation within Unity Party circles.
Costa’s political journey has been marked by dramatic shifts. After initially supporting Boakai, he later made disparaging remarks about the Unity Party standard bearer and joined forces with former President George Weah to campaign against Boakai in the 2023 runoff. His recent realignment with the Unity Party was seen by many as a strategic move to re-enter the corridors of power.
Despite his optimism, Costa’s hopes for the ministerial role appear to have been dashed, raising questions about internal party dynamics and the influence of key figures within the administration. Political analysts suggest that while Costa remains a potent voice in Liberian politics, his path to formal government appointment may be more complex than anticipated.
The Nomination:
The nomination, which is subject to confirmation by the Honorable Liberian Senate, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, ensure continuity, and promote a culture of service, accountability, and national unity. Pending the conclusion of the Senate’s constitutional recess, Hon. Stevquoah has been authorized to act in this capacity, ensuring continuity and stability in the management of presidential affairs.
The Minister of State for Presidential Affairs is a central figure in the executive branch, acting as the primary coordinator of the President’s agenda, overseeing the effective administration of the Office of the President, and serving as a vital link between the Presidency and other arms of government. The role demands dedication, professionalism, sound judgment, and unwavering loyalty to the Republic of Liberia.
As the main steward of the Presidential Office, the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs is charged with: Coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Presidency, advising the President on matters of national importance and policy implementation, and ensuring seamless communication between the Office of the President and other ministries and agencies.
The Minister of State also oversees the preparation and execution of presidential engagements, both national and international, fosters a culture of integrity, efficiency, and public service within the executive
branch and represents the President in key intergovernmental and diplomatic forums as designated. In the official communication addressed to Honorable Stevquoah, President Boakai
expressed strong confidence in the nominee’s ability to uphold the values and fulfill the duties of the office with distinction.
The President emphasized the importance of integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the Republic stating: “It is my firm expectation that you will discharge the duties of this high office with dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the Republic. The role you are assuming is central to the coordination of the affairs of the Presidency and I am confident that you will bring to it the integrity, judgment, and commitment required.”
President Boakai extended his congratulations to Hon. Stevquoah and wished him every success as he embarks on this significant responsibility in service to the nation. Honorable Samuel A. Stevquoah brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished record
of public service to his new role.
A Belated Push for Mamaka Bility’s Pick:
Their argument is backed by the fact that since President Boakai’s inauguration in early 2024, Bility has leveraged her role with remarkable effect, demonstrating the strategic acumen, diplomatic finesse, and operational diligence that make her the ideal candidate for appointment as the next Minister of State for Presidential Affairs of the Republic of Liberia.
From the outset, Mamaka Bility has served as a special envoy and chief negotiator for the President, particularly in delicate matters such as fostering relations with Liberia’s Islamic community and pursuing international investment opportunities. Her ability to navigate complex discussions with tact and purpose has made her an invaluable asset in strengthening both domestic unity and global partnerships.
A vocal and articulate advocate for the administration’s ARREST agenda—which encompasses Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism—Bility has emphasized that a solid digital foundation is essential to achieving these goals. She understands that transparent, efficient, and modern governance systems are not optional but imperative for national progress.
Her commitment to excellence is further evidenced through proactive international engagement. In April 2025, she led a high-level delegation to South Africa on a study tour focused on best practices in planning, monitoring, and evaluation—a move that highlights her dedication to evidence-based governance. During that same visit, she explored a potential partnership with the University of South Africa (Unisa) aimed at enhancing service delivery in Liberia, demonstrating her forward-thinking approach to public administration.
Also in May 2025, Bility was present to support Liberian pilgrims departing for their holy journey, underscoring her role as a government representative attentive to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the nation. Earlier, in August 2024, she met with Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, illustrating her capacity to steward Liberia’s international interests with professionalism and foresight.
Given these accomplishments and her unwavering dedication to the President’s vision, it has become visible to see that Mamaka Bility possesses precisely the blend of experience, strategic insight, and executive energy required to serve as Minister of State for Presidential Affairs.
Undoubtedly, her appointment would have not only been a recognition of her contributions thus far but also a strategic investment in competent, cohesive, and impactful leadership at the highest level of government.
Not a stranger:
On the other hand, Stevquoah is no stranger to the inner workings of the Executive Mansion. His appointment marks a return to a familiar domain, as he previously served for twelve years as Chief of Staff to then-Vice President Joseph Boakai from 2006 to 2017. In that capacity, he led a diverse team, managed the office’s comprehensive functions, acted as a primary spokesperson, and represented the Vice President at numerous local and international events.
Following his tenure with the Vice President, Stevquoah transitioned to the private sector from 2018 to 2024, holding several leadership positions with a multinational publicly traded company. His roles included Head of Corporate Services, Government Affairs, and Community Relations, where he played a critical part in coordinating the company’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A broadcast journalist by training, Stevquoah began his career at ELWA and the Liberia Broadcasting System, rising from Action News Reporter to News Director and eventually to Assistant Director General for News & Public Affairs. He holds a Master of Arts in Administration from Framingham State College in Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the United Methodist University, where he graduated with the highest honors.
