By Myean D Torgbean and Preston Slami Panyonnoh
Monrovia, Liberia – August 9, 2025 – Liberia has been thrown into mourning with the confirmed death of Ambassador Sylvester M. Grigsby, the country’s Minister of State for Presidential Affairs. The news, which has now been verified and confirmed by senior government sources including Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana, marks the passing of one of Liberia’s most experienced diplomats and political administrators.
Grigsby’s death comes as a double blow for Sinoe County in recent years. During the tenure of former President George M. Weah, the county lost another prominent son, Hon. Mobutu Vlah Nyenpan, who served as Minister of Public Works before his death in 2020. Nyenpan’s passing left a deep scar in Sinoe, and today, with the loss of Grigsby, the county again finds itself in the grip of grief.
Sylvester M. Grigsby’s career spanned decades, cutting across multiple administrations and diplomatic postings. He served as Deputy Minister of International Cooperation, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and later Minister of Foreign Affairs under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. He also represented Liberia as Ambassador to Belgium and the Benelux countries and held a senior ministerial position in the Interim Government of National Unity under President Amos C. Sawyer.
Known for his discipline, integrity, and administrative acumen, Grigsby earned a reputation as a man who worked long hours, avoided corruption scandals, and kept a relatively low public profile while executing high-level state functions.
When President Joseph Nyuma Boakai assumed office in January 2024, he appointed Grigsby as Minister of State for Presidential Affairs — one of the most influential positions in the Liberian government. The decision was rooted in personal friendship spanning more than 60 years, dating back to their days at the College of West Africa.
However, this appointment came with heavy criticism. Many in the ruling Unity Party were quick to point out that Grigsby had not supported Boakai’s Unity Party ticket during the elections, questioning why he was rewarded with such a lucrative and strategic role. Political insiders accused him of exerting excessive influence within the Executive Mansion, with claims that he had a decisive say in key government appointments and policy directions.
Grigsby faced political turbulence early in his tenure. Critics accused him of involvement in a controversial “yellow machines” public works equipment deal, which drew legislative attention and raised transparency concerns. He was also publicly accused by former Liberia Immigration Service boss Steve Zargo of conspiring with other presidential aides to remove him from his position. Zargo claimed that Grigsby and his allies had “hijacked” the presidency and were manipulating state affairs to consolidate their control.
Despite these allegations, President Boakai stood by his long-time friend, dismissing calls from some quarters for Grigsby’s removal. Supporters of the Minister described him as a stabilizing force in the new administration, pointing to his role in the swift establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the launch of the government’s ARREST agenda — an ambitious reform program aimed at accountability, infrastructure development, and economic revival.
Grigsby’s death has sent shockwaves across Liberia’s political and diplomatic circles. In Sinoe County, the news has reopened wounds left by the death of Mobutu Vlah Nyenpan, whose tenure as Minister of Public Works was also marked by dedication and public service. Losing two of its most influential political sons within five years has left many in the county reflecting on their contributions and legacies.
As Liberia comes to terms with this loss, tributes are already pouring in from colleagues, friends, and citizens who remember Grigsby for his professionalism, strategic mind, and quiet but firm leadership. For President Boakai, the passing of his childhood friend is both a personal and political tragedy.
Funeral arrangements and official tributes from the Government of Liberia are expected to be announced in the coming days.
