Monrovia – Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karngar-Lawrence finds herself in the eye of a growing storm as rumors swirl about the potential removal from her leadership position.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
Once a pillar of political stability, Karngar-Lawrence’s tenure is now being questioned, both behind the closed doors of the Senate and in public discourse.
The tension reportedly stems from the Grand Bassa County Senator’s recent strategic decision to withdraw the Liberty Party from its collaboration with the ruling Unity Party.
The move, seen as a bold assertion of independence, has had unforeseen consequences. Within the political circles of the Senate, it’s no secret that her shift in alignment has reportedly created friction, particularly with Vice President Jeremiah Koung.
Sources close to the situation reveal that Vice President Koung, once seen as a political ally, now feels increasingly threatened by her rising influence. In a political climate where power struggles often brew behind the scenes, there is growing speculation that Koung is distancing himself from Karngar-Lawrence, possibly orchestrating her removal as Pro-Tempore to neutralize what some view as a potential threat in the run-up to the 2029 elections.
Her recent withdrawal of the Liberty Party from the Unity Party’s fold has rallied some lawmakers who view her as a champion of independent political action. However, despite the backing, there are murmurs of dissatisfaction in the Senate.
According to some senators, her leadership style has fostered discontent. Unnamed sources claim that Karngar-Lawrence is seen by a portion of her colleagues as being “mean,” accusing her of not extending a cooperative hand to them.
Moreover, whispers suggest that she has been more focused on securing benefits for herself, leaving her fellow senators feeling sidelined and excluded from the legislative process.
The rift, though nuanced, has given rise to names being floated as potential replacements.
Among the individuals allegedly considered are Senator Emmanuel Nuquay of Margibi County, Senator Gabahnzogay Milton Findley of Grand Bassa County, and Bong County Senator Prince Moye, who chairs the influential Senate Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance. Even Bomi County Senator Alex Tyler has been cited as a potential contender for the position of Senate Pro-Tempore.
However, these rumors have been swiftly addressed by key figures in the Senate. Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, a prominent figure from Bomi County, took to the airwaves to emphatically deny the claims.
Snowe rejected reports that a faction of 17 senators had met to discuss the removal of Karngar-Lawrence, calling the rumors “false and misleading.” He stressed that any disagreements in the Senate, as in any family, would be settled through discussion.
The rumors circulating in the media about a group of 17 senators signing a resolution to remove Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karngar Lawrence are false and misleading. I don’t believe any senator is considering such a move. If there are disagreements, we will meet and resolve them—after all, we are known as the ‘House of Elders.’ The Pro Tempore has the full support of her colleagues.
Edwin Melvin Snowe, Senator Bomi County
“I don’t believe any senator is considering such a move,” Snowe remarked, underscoring the Senate’s reputation as the “House of Elders.” He reiterated that Karngar-Lawrence had the full support of her colleagues.
Senator Moye, a key ally and one of the figures mentioned as a potential replacement, echoed Snowe’s sentiments. Moye responded to the rumors with a firm denial, stating simply, “Not true.” He went on to dismiss any notion of a plot to oust Karngar-Lawrence, saying that the rumors were being propagated by opposition forces attempting to stir unrest. “I have never discussed such matters with any member of the Liberian Senate,” Moye added. “Senator Karngar-Lawrence has my full support.”
For Karngar-Lawrence herself, the situation has been frustrating but resolute. In a candid interview on Radio Gbehzohn, a local station in her native Grand Bassa County, she took the opportunity to reassure the public.
“There is no plan for removal,” she said, dispelling the rumors that have taken center stage in the media. “The Senate is very pleased with my leadership, and my colleagues are satisfied with the work I am doing.” She concluded, asserting that she enjoys the unwavering support of all 29 fellow senators.
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