By Preston S. Panyonnoh
Greenville, Sinoe County – June 29, 2025 –The political atmosphere in Sinoe County is already charged as the county prepares for the 2029 Senatorial election, and one of the biggest developments so far is the official declaration by Dr. Tolbert Nyenswah, former Director-General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL). With five names already dominating the political conversation — Nyenswah, Chea, Teahjay, Wiah, and Sayon — the 2029 Senatorial race still appears to be anyone’s game.
Renowned nationally and internationally as one of the heroes of Liberia’s fight against the deadly Ebola outbreak, Dr. Nyenswah made his declaration at the Amuwulu Intellectual Atayee Forum, held right in the heart of Greenville, Sinoe County.
At the forum, Dr. Nyenswah delivered an impassioned speech, recounting his years of service in the health sector and proudly branding himself as “The Ebola Hero.” He outlined his vision for legislative reform and pledged to bring his technocratic expertise into the political arena as he seeks to unseat the incumbent, Cllr. Augustine S. Chea.
However, the atmosphere quickly shifted when a young man in the audience posed a bold and disarming question:
“Sir, as the Ebola Hero and considering the great role you have played in the health sector of our country, can you point at any health facility in Du-willie, especially Panama where you hail from?”
The question caught Dr. Nyenswah off guard, leaving him visibly silent and unable to respond immediately. The forum fell quiet as the crowd absorbed the significance of the moment. For many observers, this was more than just an uncomfortable silence — it was a wake-up call for all potential 2029 aspirants that the people of Sinoe will not be swayed by titles and talk alone.
A Crowded Race with Heavyweights on Standby:
Dr. Nyenswah’s candidacy adds weight to what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive senatorial races in recent memory. Incumbent Senator Augustine S. Chea, a seasoned legal practitioner and former Deputy Minister of Justice, has remained largely quiet about his intentions, but sources close to his team suggest he will likely seek re-election. Known for his calm and calculated style, Chea still commands significant influence across various districts in the county.
Former Senator J. Milton Teahjay is also expected to re-emerge in the race. Teahjay, who once served as Superintendent and then Senator of Sinoe, is a formidable grassroots mobilizer. He brings both experience and a loyal support base, though he also carries political baggage from past controversies.
Then there’s T. Ojuku Nyenpan, brother of the late Public Works Minister Mobutu Vlah Nyenpan. Ojuku is deeply connected in Kpanyan and Dugbeh River districts and is known for community development work, though he has yet to formally declare.
Current Representative Samson Q. Wiah, whose performance in the House has garnered praise in some quarters, is being watched closely. His involvement in constituency projects and educational programs puts him in a good position, should he choose to shift focus to the Senate.
Another rising figure is Jlateh Sayon, a development and governance advocate, well-respected among youth and policy circles. While not as widely known as the others, Sayon’s name has begun gaining traction, especially among first-time voters and civil society groups.
The Message Is Clear: Show Us the Work:
The dramatic moment at the Amuwulu Forum in Greenville has now gone viral across Sinoe. It highlights a growing trend across Liberia — one where voters are increasingly focused on substance over symbolism. The days when high-profile titles alone could carry a candidate are fading. Voters, especially young people, want to see proof of past work and plans for future impact.
The question asked of Dr. Nyenswah — though directed at him — is now being echoed throughout the county. From Panama in Kpanyan to the heart of Butaw, aspirants must be ready to account for what they’ve done and how that experience will translate into real development for Sinoe.
With five names already dominating the conversation — Nyenswah, Chea, Teahjay, Wiah, and Sayon — the 2029 Senatorial race is still anyone’s game. But one thing is certain: this election will be defined not by who speaks loudest, but by who delivers the clearest vision and most credible record.
