By Wondeh L. Jah
Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe’s recent actions have raised eyebrows across Liberia as his controversial past and political maneuvers come to light. A former head of the National Patriotic Youth Congress (NPYC), the youth wing of the National Patriotic Party (NPP) founded by convicted war criminal Charles Taylor, Snowe’s trajectory has been anything but conventional.
Initially a young rebel fighter and later a driver for a rebel official during the bloody civil war, Snowe has steadily climbed the political ladder, eventually marrying the daughter of President Taylor. This strategic alliance allowed him to secure influential positions in Liberian politics, including his roles as deputy and later managing director of the Liberian Refining Company. Reports from international observers and auditors allege that he misappropriated nearly one million US dollars during his tenure there. There is the issue of LFA. He once served as President of LFA.
Having transitioned from the House of Representatives to the Senate, Snowe’s relentless ambition is clear. Recently, he co-sponsored a bill to establish new religious holidays in Liberia, including a proposal for a Muslim holiday. This move has sparked widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attempt to garner support from the Muslim community in his bid for the presidency.
Critics argue that Snowe’s motivations are purely self-serving, particularly as he appears to be positioning himself to undermine President Joseph Boakai’s government on the international stage, according to a government press statement. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that Snowe intends to ensure Boakai’s failure, further intensifying scrutiny of his political strategies. Some opposition figures, especially those from the newly created CMC of Mussa Bility, have come to the defense of the former NPFL rebel. Pro-CDC talk show hosts have been lining up in favor of Snowe while criticizing the ruling UP. However, those close to Senator Snowe claim he has ensnared the very CDC he once supported. Allegedly, in his quest for the presidency, former President Weah will be his main target. This is because Weah took Snowe around the world and introduced him to powerful people. Snowe may need to spill the beans. Others argue that he deserves no respect, given his history of supporting Taylor, who devastated Liberia and its people.
As the situation unfolds, many are calling for accountability, with one pundit suggesting that it may not be long before Snowe is called to account for his actions, from his role in the NPFL to the scandal at the LPRC. The political landscape in Liberia is shifting, and all eyes are now on Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe as he navigates the complexities of ambition and controversy.
