Published: March 23, 2026
MONROVIA — Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti has called for sweeping reforms to ensure women occupy at least half of all legislative seats in the 2029 elections, urging men to “give women the chance to lead” as Liberia confronts persistent gender imbalances in governance.
Delivering the keynote address at the Liberty Party’s International Women’s Month celebration on March 21 in Monrovia, Nyanti framed women’s leadership not as symbolic, but as central to national development.
“Men, you must give to gain,” she said. “If we want a better Liberia, men must give women the chance to lead in every sector, including health, agriculture, mining and education. When women lead, things change.”
Push for Inclusive Governance
Nyanti argued that gender parity in leadership is essential—not optional—for Liberia’s progress, calling on political actors to ensure equitable representation in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
She said inclusive governance would accelerate development and reposition the country for meaningful transformation.
Liberty Party Held Up as Example
Pointing to the Liberty Party, Nyanti praised the late Charles Brumskine for what she described as a forward-looking decision to entrust leadership to Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence.
“Brumskine understood continuity,” Nyanti said. “Today, the Liberty Party remains strong and forward-moving because a woman is at its helm.”
She also called for a shift in leadership dynamics, urging women to step forward while men create space for broader participation.
Recognition and Political Signals
Karnga-Lawrence, in a statement during the program, commended Nyanti for her contributions to Liberia’s diplomacy and presented her with an award.
“We called you here today not just to deliver a speech, but to say we appreciate your service to the party and the country,” Karnga-Lawrence said, praising Nyanti’s role in advancing Liberia’s foreign policy.
The award citation described Nyanti’s tenure as “exceptional,” noting that “the women of Liberia are proud” of her service.
Musu-Scott Credited for Party Unity
Karnga-Lawrence also paid tribute to former Chief Justice Gloria Musu-Scott, crediting her with helping to resolve internal disputes within the Liberty Party.
“She is my counselor, mentor, leader and mother,” Karnga-Lawrence said, recounting Musu-Scott’s legal support during a period of internal conflict.
Musu-Scott was also honored for her role in what party officials described as the “revitalization” of the Liberty Party.
Women’s Leadership as Development Priority
In her welcome remarks, Liberty Party National Chairperson Rugie Y. Barry emphasized the strategic importance of women’s participation in governance, linking it to Liberia’s broader development goals.
“Empowering women is not only a moral obligation, but a strategic necessity for inclusive governance,” Barry said, reaffirming the party’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women.
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