Africa-Press – Liberia. Hundreds of jubilant citizens from across Margibi County and beyond gathered over the weekend at the Cooper Farm residence of Senator James Emmanuel Nuquay to celebrate his 57th birthday.
The celebration, which drew political allies, traditional leaders, youth, and women’s groups, was marked by music, prayers, and emotional tributes that highlighted the senator’s deep connection to his people and his legacy of public service.
The atmosphere was charged with both excitement and admiration as guests reflected on Senator Nuquay’s long-standing contributions to Margibi’s growth and development. Many described him as a humble leader, a humanitarian, and a man who has used his political influence to improve the lives of ordinary Liberians.
Residents from all walks of life arrived at Cooper Farm early in the day, bringing gifts, singing traditional songs, and expressing appreciation for the senator’s leadership.
During the program, several speakers took turns to share personal stories of how Senator Nuquay has touched their lives. One woman moved the crowd to tears as she recounted how the senator paid for her son’s medical treatment without ever meeting her before. Her story, echoed by others, reinforced the senator’s reputation as a generous and compassionate leader who has never forgotten the struggles of his constituents.
When he finally addressed the gathering, Senator Nuquay expressed deep gratitude to those who traveled from near and far to honor him. He thanked his supporters for their loyalty over the years and reaffirmed his dedication to serving the people of Margibi and Liberia.
“We are honored by your presence and grateful to all of you for being here,” he said. “You know we are in politics because of you. We came to serve, and all we try to do is live up to your expectations because when you entrust us with your votes, you expect us to work for you.”
The senator said his mission in politics has always been to uplift communities through education, health, and development initiatives. He emphasized that the trust and confidence placed in him by the people of Margibi continue to inspire his work at the Legislature. “Our goal is to make sure that the people who voted for us feel the impact of leadership,” he noted.
Senator Nuquay’s political career is one defined by persistence and steady rise through Liberia’s political ranks. He first entered public office in 2005 when he was elected as Representative for Margibi County District One under the banner of the Gbaisue Campaign Team, later renamed the Gbaisue Development Association. After electoral redistricting in 2011, his constituency became part of the newly created District Five, but his popularity remained strong.
During his twelve years in the House of Representatives, he served in several strategic roles, including as Chair of the Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance. His leadership in that position helped shape national fiscal policies and guided the country’s budgetary priorities. In 2016, his colleagues elected him as Speaker of the House of Representatives on a white ballot, a position he held during the final years of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf administration.
In 2017, he rose to national prominence when he became the running mate to former Vice President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on the Unity Party ticket. Although the pair lost the election to George Weah’s Coalition for Democratic Change, Nuquay’s stature as one of Liberia’s most experienced lawmakers remained intact.
Following the elections, former President Weah appointed him as Director General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, a post he held until 2020 when he resigned to contest the Margibi County senatorial seat.
His decision to return to elective politics was widely viewed as a defining moment in his career. Running on the ticket of the People’s Unification Party, he won the 2020 Special Senatorial Election in Margibi County, a victory that reaffirmed his enduring popularity and connection with the grassroots.
Senator Nuquay’s journey from humble beginnings to political prominence has become a source of pride for many in Margibi. Before entering politics, he worked as a Quality Assurance Officer at the Weala Rubber Company.
His involvement in the Gbaisue Movement, meaning “Reserve Corn” in the Kpelle language, reflected his belief in preparedness, service, and community resilience. In the 2005 elections, he defeated several high-profile contenders, including Professor Dao Ansu Sonii, then a senior academic at the University of Liberia.
Over the years, Senator Nuquay has become a central figure in Margibi’s political evolution. His focus on education, community empowerment, and rural development has earned him respect across party lines. Colleagues often describe him as a results-driven lawmaker with deep knowledge of public finance and legislative processes.
At his 57th birthday celebration, the crowd’s excitement carried a political undertone as many supporters called on him to seek re-election in 2029. Prince Okon, a senior member of the People’s Unification Party, declared that he would lead the next campaign under the slogan “We Want 30 Years,” referring to the senator’s three-decade-long service if he wins again.
Okon praised the senator’s leadership as selfless and people-centered, describing him as “a man of his word who has never turned his back on his people.”
Other speakers, including youth and women leaders, also praised the senator’s continued support for scholarships, community development projects, and local initiatives that have transformed lives in the county. They called on him to remain in active politics, insisting that his leadership experience and commitment are needed now more than ever.
For many in attendance, the birthday celebration was more than a social gathering; it was a testament to the bond between a leader and his people. As the evening progressed, the sound of traditional drums and cultural songs filled the air while supporters danced in celebration of a man whose public service has spanned nearly two decades.
As he mingled with guests and thanked supporters, Senator Nuquay’s message was clear. “We are here because of the people,” he said. “We came to serve, and we will continue to serve.” His words drew loud applause from the crowd, many of whom see him not just as a senator but as a symbol of leadership, humility, and hope for Margibi County.
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