Liberian-US-based activist Norris Johnson has questioned President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s decision to appoint former Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Natu Tweh as Acting Minister of National Defense.
In a statement, Johnson said he supports the President’s broader effort to reorganize his administration but expressed concern over Tweh’s qualifications and experience for the defense portfolio.
Johnson challenged Tweh to explain to Liberians how his professional background prepares him to handle national security, military coordination, border security, defense planning and territorial integrity.
“The Ministry of National Defense is not an ordinary government institution,” Johnson said, stressing that its leadership requires an understanding of military affairs and national security strategy.
He said he was “disappointed” by the appointment, arguing that Tweh should demonstrate relevant defense, security, military or strategic leadership experience to justify his suitability for the position.
Johnson also called on the Liberian Senate to subject nominees for sensitive positions to meaningful scrutiny rather than treating confirmation as a political formality.
He criticized what he described as “political recycling,” urging the government to prioritize qualifications, competence, integrity and experience over political loyalty or personal connections.
“Qualifications must matter. Experience must matter. Integrity must matter. And Liberia must come first,” Johnson concluded.
