Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has expressed profound shock and deep sorrow over the sudden passing of Sylvester M. Grigsby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs — describing him as not only a colleague, however a trusted ally and pillar of integrity.
By Jaheim Tumu, [email protected]
In an announcement issued Saturday, President Boakai stated Grigsby’s loss of life is an immeasurable loss to his administration and the nation, noting his a long time of devoted public service, distinctive management, and unwavering dedication to Liberia’s development.
“Minister Grigsby was a trusted buddy, an astute statesman, and a pillar of integrity in public service. His counsel, expertise, and steadfast dedication to responsibility will likely be sorely missed by me personally and by the complete Authorities,” the President stated.
Grigsby had been out of the general public eye for a while on account of sickness and was flown overseas for remedy. Household sources confirmed he died Saturday morning in america, the place he had been searching for medical care.
The Authorities of Liberia, by the Ministry of Info, introduced that funeral preparations will likely be made public following consultations with the household.
“The Authorities extends condolences to the grieving household of the deceased Minister, the workers of the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, and all Liberians who had the privilege of working with or figuring out him, for such an irreparable and tragic loss,” stated Info Minister Jerolimek Piah.
A Distinguished Profession in Public Service
Over a profession spanning greater than 4 a long time, Grigsby served in a number of high-profile roles, together with Performing Minister of International Affairs, Minister of State with out Portfolio, and Minister of State for Presidential Affairs underneath former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
An skilled diplomat, he was Liberia’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium with concurrent accreditation to the European Union, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. He additionally served as Deputy Minister for International Affairs and Deputy Minister for Worldwide Cooperation and Financial Integration.
A local of Sinoe County, Grigsby additionally served as Superintendent of the county and made notable contributions to Liberia’s media panorama by founding the Solar Instances newspaper within the early Eighties. The paper earned public admiration for its protection of governance, human rights, arts, leisure, and sports activities.
Grigsby was among the many first officers appointed by President Boakai in 2024 and was extensively thought to be a key behind-the-scenes adviser throughout his time with former President Sirleaf.
President Boakai prolonged heartfelt condolences to Grigsby’s household, the workers of the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, and all Liberians who had the privilege of figuring out or working with him.
