MONROVIA – River Cess County Senator Wellington Geevon-Smith has dismissed his Administrative Assistant, Stephen Thomas Grant, for declaring his intention to contest against Representative Alex Joe Grant in the 2029 elections.
By: Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
The senator made the decision public on Friday, May 16, confirming that the dismissal followed Stephen Grant’s announcement to challenge Rep. Joe Grant of Electoral District #1—someone the senator described as his closest ally in the River Cess Legislative Caucus.
Senator Geevon-Smith said he became aware of Stephen Grant’s political ambition through social media posts and community meetings organized during the legislative break. He said the move caught him by surprise given the longstanding relationship between the two Grants.
He disclosed that he summoned Stephen Grant to a meeting, along with the Political Advisor to his office, Charles Bartee, to confirm the reports. During that meeting, Stephen reportedly admitted to his intention to run for the legislative seat, citing support from communities in Kploh, Dubor, and Siahn.
Senator Geevon-Smith expressed disappointment over the move, stating that it created the perception that he was using his office to undermine Rep. Joe Grant, who had supported his 2020 senatorial campaign.
He said allowing his aide to remain in the office while publicly opposing a political ally would damage his credibility and strain working relations within the county caucus.
The senator further said that the declaration was not only politically insensitive but also posed a risk of reigniting divisions within the River Cess Legislative Caucus—a concern often raised by constituents about the inability of lawmakers to work together.
He explained that Stephen Grant’s actions had already begun fueling public confusion, especially with his persistent presence on Facebook and chat rooms where he allegedly criticized Rep. Joe Grant.
The final decision to dismiss him came after the aide failed to attend a meeting called by the senator following the reopening of the Legislature. Despite being given prior notice, Stephen Grant did not show up.
Senator Geevon-Smith emphasized that Stephen Grant retains his constitutional right to contest for public office but cannot do so while occupying a seat within his office, especially when the campaign targets a close political partner.
He said the dismissal was not based on administrative performance but purely on political grounds, citing repeated attempts by the aide to publicly oppose someone considered integral to the senator’s political journey.
Though Senator Geevon-Smith has opted not to seek re-election in 2029, he said his focus remains on delivering his promises to the people of River Cess and exiting public service with integrity and strong relationships intact.
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