GANTA, NIMBA COUNTY – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on January 18, 2025, paid heartfelt tribute to the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, a towering and controversial figure in Liberia’s political history. Speaking during Johnson’s funeral service, Boakai offered condolences to the senator’s family, the people of Nimba County, and all Liberians who felt the impact of his life and career.
In his eulogy, the President described Senator Johnson as a complex personality whose influence on Liberia’s political and social evolution was both significant and deeply felt. “Senator Johnson’s story mirrors the journey of our nation—a tale of struggles, transformations, and enduring contributions,” Boakai said, emphasizing the late senator’s pivotal role in shaping Liberia’s contemporary history.
President Boakai highlighted Johnson’s remarkable ability to connect with his constituents and transcend regional boundaries. “His leadership transcended tribal and political lines, offering hope and representation to the people of Nimba and beyond,” he remarked, acknowledging the senator’s political prowess and his dedication to serving his people.
Reflecting on Johnson’s contributions to national reconciliation, Boakai underscored his advocacy for the establishment of a war crimes court, a stance that marked a significant chapter in his public life. According to the President, Johnson’s support for justice and accountability demonstrated his commitment to addressing Liberia’s painful past. “His endorsement of a war crimes court underscored his belief in the power of justice to heal and rebuild our nation,” Boakai stated, framing it as one of the senator’s defining legacies.
The President also touched on Johnson’s spiritual journey, highlighting his later years as a time of personal growth and reconciliation. “Senator Johnson sought peace with himself, with his community, and with his Creator, a pursuit that resonates deeply with our collective longing for healing and unity,” Boakai noted. He praised Johnson’s transformation as a source of inspiration for Liberians striving to overcome divisions and forge a path toward harmony.
Concluding his tribute, President Boakai urged Liberians to draw lessons from the late senator’s life, acknowledging its complexities while celebrating his contributions. “Senator Johnson’s legacy is multifaceted, but his impact on our national story is undeniable. Let us honor his memory by continuing the work of reconciliation and justice, which he championed in his final years,” the President said.
