Confirmation Hearing of Sara Beysolow Nyanti Postponed -Senate Committee Cites Overcrowded Hall, Security Breach

MONROVIA: Of all the first batch of officials nominated yet by President Joseph N. Boakai, the Foreign Affairs Minister-designate has attracted much controversy and public attention. Both ruling Unity Party insiders and some members of the public dispute the academic credentials and competence of the nominee, with some calling on the President to withdraw the nomination.

Thus, on yesterday, February 1, 2024, pubic anxieties ran high as it was announced that the nominee, Rev. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, was appearing before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for confirmation. Thousands of eager supporters gathered at the Capitol from early morning, with over 2,000 individuals present to demonstrate their unwavering support for Madam Nyanti.

Some commentators conjectured that the huge crowding at the Capitol Building was attributed in part to Senator Abe Darius Dillon, the Foreign Relations Committee Chairperson, who announced on his Facebook page: “The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs/Relations holds confirmation hearings for Foreign Minister Designate, Madam Sara Beysolow-Nyanti tomorrow at 2PM (GMT) in the Chambers of the Senate.  The media and public are invited. The Committee is arranging to have the hearings aired LIVE on public radio ELBC.”

Before the it was time for the confirmation, swarms of people had inundated both the grounds of the Capitol and the chamber hall. It was observed that the EU, US, and Chinese had representation amongst the crowd.

As the public hearing commenced, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and a fervent sense of optimism.

However, after only a few minutes into the proceedings, Senator Dillon, the presiding official who is Chairperson of the Foreign Relations Committee, announced the postponement.

He cited a security breach and the overcrowding of the chamber as the primary reasons behind this unforeseen decision.

The news of the postponement was met with disappointment by Rev. Sara Beysolow Nyanti’s supporters, who had anxiously awaited the opportunity to witness the confirmation hearing.

Nevertheless, undeterred by this setback, the supporters told journalists that they remain committed to their cause and have vowed to assemble in full force on Monday for a fair and unbiased confirmation hearing.

“We came today to support this great woman. We have been waiting for a long time for somebody like her who has the education and experience to help this country. They say we should come back Monday, and we will be back Monday. We just want them to be fair to the woman,” says Mrs. Kebeh Jallah.

Throughout this unexpected and unprecedented turn of events, Rev. Sara Beysolow Nyanti expressed her gratitude towards her supporters and the unwavering belief they have shown in her capabilities. She remains resolute in her dedication to serving Liberia as the Foreign Minister and is eager to address the concerns of the nation while showcasing her qualifications and vision for a better future.

The events of today, though disappointing, serve as a reminder of the immense support Rev. Sara Beysolow Nyanti has garnered on her journey towards this significant position. The postponement of the confirmation hearing should be viewed as a temporary delay, rather than a setback, as it allows for necessary adjustments to be made to ensure the proceedings are conducted with the utmost adherence to security protocols and fair representation.

Rev. Sara Beysolow Nyanti’s supporters eagerly anticipate Monday’s rescheduled hearing, ready to once again demonstrate their unwavering support for her confirmation. They remain united in their determination to witness a transparent and inclusive process that maintains the integrity of Liberia’s democratic values.