Gbarnga — From the narrow streets of Gbarnga’s Broad Street to the corridors of Liberia’s national politics, Prince Moye’s rise is one of remarkable ambition, resilience, and strategic foresight.
By Selma Lomax | [email protected]
Today, at 49, Moye is not only known as a political powerhouse in Bong County, but also as the county’s “Godfather,” a title that reflects his unmatched influence and deep commitment to shaping its future.
His journey from humble beginnings to political prominence in Liberia is a story of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in his people.
Moye’s roots lie in the village of Mano Wainsue in Jorquelleh District Two, where he spent his early years in relative obscurity. His path to prominence began, like many, in the heart of business —selling goods on the streets of Gbarnga and engaging in cross-border commerce with neighboring Guinea.
These modest beginnings, however, provided him with invaluable insight into the everyday struggles of his people, and they would eventually fuel his desire to enact change at a higher level.
His entry into politics came in 2011, when he ran for the position of Representative for Jorquelleh District.
Despite fierce competition from seven other candidates, including former Bong County Superintendent Esther Walker, Moye secured a staggering 80 percent of the vote. His victory was not just a personal triumph but the start of a transformative journey for Bong County itself.
Party loyalty
In June 2016, Moye was elected by a seven-member national convention committee, appointed by the National Executive Committee of the Unity Party (UP), with the consent of Standard Bearer Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The convention also saw the election of Joseph Boakai as the party’s standard bearer.
During his first term as Representative (2011-2017), Moye demonstrated his political acumen by securing over 20 development projects for his district, including a significant World Bank-funded school project valued at $500,000.
This early success firmly established him as a leader committed to tangible improvements in his constituency. His achievements were enough to earn him re-election in 2017, reinforcing his position as a trusted political figure.
However, it was Moye’s remarkable rise to Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in 2018 that truly cemented his reputation. Despite being part of the opposition Unity Party during a government led by the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Moye managed to garner respect across party lines and navigated Liberia’s political divisions.
His election to the Deputy Speaker’s post— an unusual feat for an opposition member — highlighted his deftness in building alliances and understanding the intricacies of the country’s political landscape.
Yet, Moye’s political influence truly reached new heights during the 2020 senatorial race.
Faced with intense opposition from the Weah administration and other local political figures, Moye remained steadfast in his pursuit of the Senate seat. His determination and grassroots support led to a historic victory, as he became the first candidate in Bong County’s history to win all seven of the county’s political districts.
His overwhelming success — securing 50 percent of the vote — marked a new era for Bong County and set the stage for further accomplishments.
Even after his victory, Moye’s influence did not wane.
Moye in 2022 played a crucial role in making Joseph Boakai standard bearer of Unity Party. That was a testament to his long standing commitment to the Unity Party despite reported offers from opposition political parties to lure him over.
In the 2023 presidential election, he played a pivotal role as the National Campaign Chair for the Unity Party, helping to guide Joseph Boakai’s bid for the presidency. His leadership and strategic decisions helped elevate Bong County’s presence on the national stage, with Moye working tirelessly to ensure key government positions for county natives.
Moye’s tenure saw a surge in Bong County’s political representation at the national level, with individuals such as Bill McGill Jones (Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance), Martha Morris (Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Health), and Moses Gbanyan (Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Agriculture) securing high-ranking positions. This unprecedented level of representation underlined Moye’s efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for Bong County’s residents.
But Moye’s work extends beyond political influence and power. His leadership has also been instrumental in advancing local development. Key projects, such as a modern youth center in Suakoko District and several educational initiatives across Districts One and Three, stand as a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. Moye’s work in education, healthcare, and youth empowerment continues to be felt throughout the county.
A formal recognition of Moye’s leadership came in February 2025, when Bong County District Six Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah publicly named him the “Godfather” of Bong County during the funeral of his late driver, Andrew Kollie. In an emotional tribute, Representative Mensah praised Moye’s dedication to his people, noting that “for the first time in Bong County, we have more positions here because of the influence of our Godfather.”
This public acknowledgment from a fellow lawmaker, despite their political differences during the 2023 elections, underscores Moye’s undeniable influence in the county’s political evolution. It also signals a reconciliation and a recognition of Moye’s central role in the county’s political and developmental trajectory.
Moye’s unwavering commitment to his people is reflected in his status as the longest-serving member of the Bong Legislative Caucus, a distinction that speaks to his leadership, loyalty, and dedication to ensuring that the voices of Bong County residents are heard and represented at the national level.
For the people of Bong County, Moye is not just a political leader—he is a unifying force, a mentor, and a beacon of hope. His influence continues to shape the county’s political future, and as the self-proclaimed “Godfather,” Moye’s legacy of empowerment, leadership, and strategic thinking will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the county and beyond.
His influence extends beyond the hallowed halls of government and into the homes and hearts of Bong County’s residents. Locals like Paul Kermee from Totota have expressed their admiration for Moye’s unwavering dedication to the county’s progress. On social media, Kermee posted, “Senator Moye’s work for the people of Bong County is unparalleled. His impact is felt across every district.”
Similarly, Charles Gbantomalah, another resident, declared, “No debate about that; Senator Moye is the one everyone looks to for leadership and direction. He is our Godfather, and that’s the truth.”
Through his tireless work and commitment to his people, Moye has ensured that Bong County’s voice is stronger than ever in national politics. As he continues to lead, his legacy as the “Godfather” of Bong County will remain a powerful force for change and progress in Liberia’s future.
