Like many Liberians, I am gravely ravaged and afflicted by the tragic death news of Dr. Daniel Estrada Cassell, a fine countryman and dear Leader of the People Liberation Party or PLP. It is heartbreaking that in this joyous season of merry, savage, and hawkish death would come snatching a distinguished son of our homeland and plunging us into the chilling cold of grief. Oh death, where is thou sting? And yet, we fear you not.
As the charismatic and energetic PLP leader painfully leaps on the dark side to abide in the bosom of the Lord Almighty, shocking the nation in no small way, we are starkly reminded yet again that Life is ephemeral and to each of us the bell shall toss on a fateful day and to immortality, we shall transition. Suffice this to say this world is not our home, we are only passing through, so while the journey last, may we endeavor to etch grandiose memories on the minds of our families, friends, and fellow countrymen as well as the world where possible.
No doubt, Dr. Cassell will be profoundly missed by many in different ways. To some, he was an untiring philanthropist. To partisans of the PLP, he was a dear leader and liberator. Others found him to be an inspiring firebrand politician with no modicum of fear. Those in corporate America rated him as a business tycoon who made fortune from America’s health industry.
These different characteristics culminate into one irrefutable fact, Cassell made a meaningful impact in his lifetime. He was a man filled with life, hope, and vitality, and his smiles were bright and appealing. His political career was shot-span but profoundly accomplished with the establishment of the PLP which would quickly gain fame and relevance in Liberia’s complex and turbulent political landscape.
He was passionate about governance and the socioeconomic transformation of his country and the dignity of his people and this, according to him, made him developed an interest in national politics and subsequently harbored the ambition to become President of Liberia.
With a heavy heart, I extend my condolences and prayers to his dear wife and children, his relatives, friends, and the entire PLP family. May Jehovah God console and strengthen them during these dark hours of bereavement. Indeed, Liberia has lost a Hero and this loss is inconsolable for all of us.
Well done and goodnight, Bro. Daniel E. Cassell!
Salute!
