MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) and the Public Affairs Committee for the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson have expressed strong disapproval of former President George M. Weah’s conduct on Sunday, December 1, 2024, during a condolence visit to the home of the late senator. In a statement released late on Sunday, December 1, 2024, signed by Kelvin D. J. Mattaldi, National Vice Chair for Public Affairs at MDR, the groups condemned Weah’s refusal to shake hands with Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung and Representative Samuel G. Kogar upon his arrival at the funeral.
According to the statement, Vice President Koung and Representative Kogar, both respected leaders from Nimba County, extended their hands to greet Weah as a customary gesture of respect and solidarity. However, Weah deliberately avoided the handshake, instead placing his hand over his chest as a non-verbal acknowledgment. This behavior was seen as disrespectful, particularly given the solemnity of the occasion and the cultural significance of handshakes in Nimba as a sign of welcome and appreciation.
The MDR and Nimba County leaders expressed their disappointment, calling the former president’s actions a disservice to the entire Nimba community. They emphasized that even in the midst of political differences, such behavior was inappropriate during a time of mourning. “This is a grave disrespect to two of Nimba’s prominent leaders and an affront to the memory of the late Senator Johnson,” the statement read.
The incident has prompted speculation that Weah’s actions were influenced by lingering political tensions from the 2023 presidential election, where Vice President Koung played a pivotal role in the coalition that ultimately displaced Weah’s government. Analysts suggest that Weah’s refusal to participate in the customary handshake may be seen as a silent protest or sign of dissatisfaction.
This development has reignited conversations about the persistent political divisions in Liberia, even during moments of collective mourning. While the passing of Senator Johnson was intended to bring together political leaders, the encounter between Weah and the Nimba leaders highlights ongoing polarization in Liberia’s political sphere.
The MDR and the Nimba community are calling for unity and reflection in honor of Senator Johnson’s legacy, urging political leaders to use his death as an opportunity for reconciliation rather than division. The statement concluded with a call for all leaders to rise above personal grievances and prioritize the nation’s unity and stability.
