President Joseph Boakai’s nomination of Brahima Kaba as Liberia’s Ambassador-Designate to Kuwait has sparked widespread controversy, with critics questioning the decision’s propriety and its alignment with merit-based governance.
Reports suggest that Mr. Kaba, nearly 80 years old and in poor health, is physically unable to walk, raising concerns about his ability to fulfill the demanding responsibilities of an ambassador.
According to investigations by Verity News, Mr. Kaba’s health challenges may prevent him from attending the mandatory Senate confirmation hearings, a key step in validating any presidential nominee.
His advanced age also exceeds the retirement limits set by Liberia’s 2017 pension law, which mandates retirement at 60 or 65 under the Civil Service Standing Order. As a pensioner who previously served as Liberia’s Ambassador to Senegal during the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf administration, Kaba’s nomination has reignited debates over the “recycling” of officials past their prime.
“This is another instance of recycling old and failed politicians,” activist Martin K. N. Kollie remarked. “Liberia needs forward-thinking leaders who can address poverty, unemployment, and systemic failures in healthcare and education—not individuals who represent the stagnation of past administrations.”
Critics argue that Liberia’s diplomatic corps requires innovative leadership to navigate complex international challenges. Many have questioned why younger, qualified candidates were overlooked in favor of an individual whose capacity to serve effectively is in doubt.
Adding to the backlash are allegations of nepotism. Mr. Kaba’s daughter, Saran Kaba-Jones, reportedly serves as the Special Assistant to Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti. Critics allege that this familial connection influenced his nomination, allowing him to draw a government salary and pension benefits.
“Meritocracy and equity have been sidelined in Liberia,” Kollie added. “Appointments are being driven by nepotism and influence peddling rather than competence. This undermines public trust and betrays the change President Boakai promised in 2023.”
The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, led by Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, has yet to address whether Kaba’s health and age will affect his confirmation. However, public outcry has mounted, demanding transparency and fairness in vetting. The committee faces a critical decision: approving a nominee whose physical and administrative capacity is seriously questioned.
