MONROVIA – In an unexpected yet strategic move, Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti has formally reached out to former President George Weah, requesting his endorsement for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This bid, initiated by Weah during his presidency, has now reached a critical juncture as Liberia prepares for its official launch at the UN Headquarters on September 27, 2024.
In a letter dated September 6, 2024, Minister Nyanti acknowledged Weah’s pivotal role in initiating Liberia’s campaign for the UNSC seat, highlighting his global recognition as a peace ambassador. “Your global presence as a peace ambassador has not only fortified Liberia’s position on the world stage but also brought pride and honor to our nation,” Nyanti wrote. She further emphasized that Weah’s support would significantly enhance Liberia’s chances in securing the coveted seat.
The letter seeks Weah’s participation in two key ways: first, by providing a brief video endorsement, and second, by attending the official launch of Liberia’s UNSC bid at the United Nations General Assembly. Minister Nyanti’s message underscores the collective importance of Liberia’s peacekeeping efforts and its commitment to global stability. Liberia previously served as a non-permanent member of the UNSC in 1961 and has since evolved into a contributor to peacebuilding across the world.
While the communication appears to extend a diplomatic olive branch, it has sparked controversy. Former Representative Acarous Gray, a close ally of George Weah, took to social media, sharply criticizing the release of the letter to the public. In a scathing post on Facebook, Gray condemned the diplomatic approach of the current government, describing it as “undiplomatic” and disrespectful to Weah.
“This is very undiplomatic that you wrote President Weah for help and you chose to leak the communication,” Gray wrote. He further argued that Weah had already secured the groundwork for Liberia’s bid during his tenure, calling the government’s current actions an unnecessary fight against the former president. “President Weah already secured the seat for Liberia to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, so go make follow-up and hope you guys don’t blunder.”
Gray’s post also took aim at President Joseph Boakai’s administration, accusing them of sidelining Weah and his supporters since coming to power, despite Weah’s peaceful transfer of authority. He expressed frustration over what he termed as an ingratitude shown towards Weah, questioning why the government, after allegedly disrespecting Weah, was now seeking his help to bolster the UNSC bid.
Gray also raised concerns about Liberia’s diplomatic strategy, questioning the decision to involve certain senators in lobbying efforts while criticizing the government for its failure to engage Weah earlier in the process. “Tell Boakai to put a call in to President Weah if you guys really mean well,” he urged.
This unfolding saga reflects the broader political tensions simmering between Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and the current administration. While Weah’s backing is seen as crucial to the success of the UNSC campaign, the strained relationship between the former and current leadership presents a significant obstacle to uniting behind Liberia’s international aspirations.
As Liberia moves closer to the official launch of its UNSC bid, it remains unclear whether Weah will heed the call for unity or if the political divide will deepen. One thing, however, is certain: securing this seat will require more than just diplomacy on the world stage—it will demand healing the fractures within Liberia’s political landscape.
