In his tribute to the late Senator Prince Y Johnson, Grand Gedeh County Senator, Thomas Yaya Nimely stated that Prince Johnson as a huge figure in Liberia’s political and wartime history, carried the weight of betrayal by the very system he believed in, the Joseph Boakai government. This was the sentiment he shared during the ongoing funeral of the former Nimba County senator in Ganta, Nimba County.
Senator Nimely, who described Johnson as a close friend, reflected on their bond and the challenges Johnson faced in his later years. “Senator Johnson was my friend for many years,” Nimely stated. “We discussed issues concerning peace for the nation, and he was committed to preaching redemption and forgiveness for over two decades.”
However, Nimely didn’t shy away from addressing what he described as a betrayal by the Joseph Boakai administration. He accused the government of failing to uphold promises made to Johnson, particularly in relation to avoiding prosecution for his role in Liberia’s civil war.
“Senator Johnson supported past leaders to buy time so that he wouldn’t be prosecuted,” Nimely said, drawing cheers from mourners. “The new president promised him time, but when the time came, the time was not given.”
Nimely, himself a former warlord, warned of the complexities surrounding the pursuit of justice for ex-combatants. “There are over 100,000 ex-combatants in the country who would have stood in solidarity with Senator Johnson to prevent his prosecution. I guarantee you, if you touch one, you touch all.”
Despite the political controversies, Nimely emphasized Johnson’s deep desire for reconciliation, particularly between Nimba and Grand Gedeh counties. Relations between the two regions have remained strained since Johnson’s forces killed President Samuel Doe, a native of Grand Gedeh, in 1990.
“I believe Senator Johnson wanted to see a genuine relationship between Nimba and Grand Gedeh counties,” Nimely said passionately. “We have not had the guts to reconcile, but now I challenge you – I do.”
Prince Johnson’s death marks a pivotal moment in Liberia’s history, as the nation continues to wrestle with the promises and challenges of justice and reconciliation. As mourners pay their respects, the question remains: will Liberia find the courage to confront its past and forge a path toward healing?
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