Liberia: Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Elias Shoniyin Steps Down from Weah Government
Monrovia – Mr. B. Elias Shoniyin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs has tendered in his resignation from the George Weah-led government, FrontPageAfrica has learned.
Rodney D. Sieh, [email protected]
Multiple sources confirmed to FPA Monday that Mr. Shoniyin submitted his letter to President Weah Monday but did not provide a specific reason, only citing personal and professional consideration.
A copy of the letter in possession of FrontPageAfrica appears to rule out lingering reports between the deputy minister and his boss, Minister Gbezohnga Finley which has been in the air for some time.
Mr. Shoniyin’s letter obtained by FrontPageAfrica reads:
Dear Mr. President,
It is with regret that I tender my resignation as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia effective May 6, 2019, after thirteen years of dedicated service to the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spanning two successive Administrations. My resignation is motivated solely by personal and professional consideration.
Meanwhile, I take this opportunity to thank Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve on your team since your historic inauguration on January 22, 2018, and for your personal brotherly support during the period of my service in your administration.
Mr. Elias Shoniyin
“I take this opportunity to thank Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve on your team since your historic inauguration on January 22, 2018, and for your personal brotherly support during the period of my service in your administration. “
My time working as a member of your administration was indeed a wonderful experience and an opportunity to continue making meaningful contribution to our great country. You can have my assurances that I depart the Foreign Ministry but not the Administration, as I remain committed to the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD) and will be available whenever I am called upon.
I wish you all the best and God’s guidance on this onerous journey, as you lead our nation to nobler heights.
It is not clear whether President Weah has accepted the resignation of Mr. Shoniyin who was first appointed to government in 2006 by former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf as Assistant Foreign Minister. He was later elevated as Deputy Minister for International Cooperation. He later became Deputy Foreign Minister after series of issues involving the administration of the Japanese Grant emerged.