Liberia: President Boakai Confers National Honors on Veteran Public Servant Emmanuel Reeves, Journalist James Butty at 179th Independence Day Investiture

Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Wednesday honored several distinguished Liberians and foreign nationals for their exceptional contributions to national development and public service during Liberia’s 179th Independence Day Investiture Ceremony.

By J.H. Webster Clayeh

Among those decorated were veteran public servant Emmanuel Nuku Reeves Sr. and veteran Voice of America (VOA) journalist James Butty, both recognized for decades of dedicated service to Liberia.

Reading the official citation on behalf of President Boakai, Chief of Protocol Ambassador Antoinette Munah Wolo described Reeves as a career public servant whose professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on Liberia’s public institutions.

She said Reeves has devoted more than five decades to serving the Liberian government in key financial and maritime positions, earning a reputation for diligence, sound judgment, and exemplary leadership.

“You began your career as a trainee cadet at the Ministry of Finance and the Bureau of Maritime Affairs and advanced through successive positions of responsibility in financial oversight, maritime affairs, and public administration,” Ambassador Wolo said.

She also highlighted Reeves’ service with the Office of Financial Affairs in Washington, D.C.—a satellite office of Liberia’s Ministry of Finance—and Liberia Services in Virginia, as well as his consultancy work with the Liberia International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR), where he helped strengthen the country’s maritime financial oversight.

“As Deputy Commissioner for Financial Affairs and Financial Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority, you demonstrated exceptional integrity, sound judgment, and steadfast devotion to responsible financial management, helping safeguard important national institutions and advance Liberia’s maritime interests,” Wolo said.

In recognition of his outstanding service, President Boakai admitted Reeves into the Order of the Star of Africa with the rank of Grand Commander, one of Liberia’s highest national honors.

The ceremony also honored veteran VOA journalist James Butty, who was inducted into the Humane Order of African Redemption with the rank of Knight Commander for his distinguished contributions to journalism and public service.

In a statement following the ceremony, Butty described the honor as a tribute to all Liberians who believe in press freedom, truth, and democratic accountability.

“This honor is not mine alone. It belongs to every Liberian who believes in truth, accountability, and the power of a free press to strengthen democracy—not only in Liberia, but across Africa and the world,” Butty said.

Reflecting on his journalism career, Butty said he has remained committed to fairness and integrity while covering some of Liberia’s and Africa’s most defining moments.

“In every moment—whether reporting from the field, behind a studio microphone, or in conversation with leaders and citizens—I have tried to serve with integrity, fairness, and respect. This award affirms the value of that commitment. It reminds me that journalism, at its best, is an act of service to inform, uplift, and help build a more just and peaceful society,” he said.

Butty also thanked his family, colleagues, and the Liberian people for their support, while expressing appreciation to President Boakai for the national recognition.

“I thank my family, especially my dear wife, who wanted to be here in person but could not because of prior work commitments, my colleagues, and the Liberian people for their trust and encouragement. And I thank you, Mr. President, and the people of Liberia for this distinguished recognition,” he said.

The investiture ceremony formed part of activities commemorating Liberia’s 179th Independence Day and celebrated individuals whose service and achievements have contributed to the nation’s progress.