PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – The Rhode Island House of Representatives has honored Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, Jr. for his contributions to peace, national unity, democratic governance in Liberia, and regional cooperation.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
Senator Snowe, who is currently on a working visit to the United States, paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives, K. Joseph Shekarchi. During his visit to the State House, he was formally welcomed on the floor of the House and presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his public service.
Introducing Senator Snowe to the House, Rhode Island State Representative Nathan W. Biah, Sr., described him as a distinguished statesman whose service to Liberia spans both chambers of the national legislature and extends beyond the country’s borders.
Representative Biah, who is a Liberian immigrant, infirmed his colleagues that Snowe previously served as Speaker of Liberia’s House of Representatives and is currently a Senator representing Bomi County, where he chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.
According to Biah, Snowe’s leadership reflects resilience, experience, and a strong commitment to democratic governance.
“On a personal note, I have come to value not only his leadership but also his mentorship and example,” Biah said. “Like many others, I have learned from his experience, his steady approach to governance, and his unwavering dedication to country over self. His service has helped shape the path for emerging leaders.”
Biah further highlighted Snowe’s regional role, noting his involvement in the ECOWAS Parliament, where he contributes to discussions on peace, security, and development across West Africa.
“In those roles, he has contributed significantly to advancing peace, stability, and sustainable development across the region,” Biah added. “Honorable colleagues, please join me in welcoming a statesman, mentor, and true servant of the Liberian people—Senator Edwin Snowe.”
Following the introduction, members of the Rhode Island House of Representatives gave Senator Snowe a standing ovation before presenting him with a formal citation.
Citation Inscription
The certificate, issued on March 31, 2026, at the State House in Providence, reads in part:
“The Rhode Island House of Representatives hereby offers its sincerest congratulations to the Honorable Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, Jr., in recognition of your distinguished service to the Republic of Liberia as Senator of Bomi County, former Speaker of the House, and a committed advocate for national unity, democratic governance, and regional cooperation.”
The citation was proposed by Representative Nathan W. Biah, Sr., and signed by Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, Majority Leader Christopher R. Blazejewski, and Minority Leader Michael W. Chippendale.
In response, Senator Snowe expressed appreciation for the recognition.
The recognition highlights Senator Snowe’s longstanding legislative career, spanning two decades. He was first elected in 2005 as Representative of Montserrado County District #6 and later became Liberia’s first post-war Speaker of the House of Representatives. After several years in that role, he contested and won a representative seat in Bomi County, and was subsequently elected as Senator of Bomi County.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and also heads Liberia’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament.
