The Plenary of the Liberian Senate on Thursday, October 28, 2025, voted to confirm Samuel A. Stevquoah as Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, marking the formal replacement of the late Sylvester Grigsby, who passed away after battling illness. The confirmation brings to an end week of anticipation over whether or not Stevequoh would assume one of the most strategic positions within the Executive Branch of Government.
Stevquoah’s confirmation followed a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Executive, which underscored the importance of filling the vacant post to ensure effective coordination between the Office of the President and other government ministries and agencies. Maryland County Senator James Biney, who chairs the Committee, told the Senate Plenary that the nominee possessed the requisite qualifications and experience necessary to serve in the role, expressing satisfaction that his appointment would strengthen the administrative machinery of the presidency.
During the voting process, nineteen senators, including Darius Dillon of Montserrado County, Botoe Kanneh of Gbarpolu, and Saah Joseph of Montserrado, voted in favor of the confirmation, while Senator Francis Dopoh abstained. The confirmation, witnessed by senior government officials and observers, was seen as a moment of continuity and reassurance for the Boakai administration. Samuel A. Stevquoah brings to the post a long and distinguished record of public service.
A graduate of the United Methodist University (UMU) in Liberia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, he also holds a Master of Arts degree in Administration from Framingham State College in Massachusetts, USA. His academic and professional journey reflects a blend of administrative competence, policy expertise, and leadership experience both in the public and private sectors.
Stevquoah previously served as Chief of Office Staff to then-Vice President Joseph Boakai from 2006 to 2017, where he acted as a key advisor, policy strategist, and spokesperson. He later served as Minister of State Without Portfolio for Special Services, coordinating inter-agency projects and presidential initiatives. Beyond government service, he held senior roles at ArcelorMittal Liberia between 2018 and 2024, where he managed corporate services, government relations, and the company’s pandemic response programs. Before entering public service, Stevquoah began his professional career in broadcast journalism, eventually rising to the position of Assistant Director General at the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS).
His transition from journalism to public administration has earned him a reputation as a disciplined communicator and an effective manager. Widely described as a man of integrity, strategic focus, and collaboration, Stevquoah is regarded as one of President Boakai’s most trusted allies. His confirmation signals not only the restoration of full functionality within the Office of the President but also a reinforcement of the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.
With his extensive experience and close working relationship with President Boakai, many political observers believe that Minister Stevquoah’s presence at the Executive Mansion will bring renewed vigor and administrative discipline to the presidency as Liberia continues its post-reform governance agenda.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
