By: Ben T.C Brooks
River Gee County | May 14, 2026 | The remains of former Chairman of the River Gee Traditional Council and former Deputy Speaker of the Liberia Traditional Council, Chief James Pah Sayee, have arrived in Fish-Town, the capital of River Gee, amid an atmosphere of grief, reflection, and heartfelt tributes from citizens and traditional leaders.
The late chief, remembered as a respected custodian of culture and a symbol of unity, was received by local government officials, traditional elders, family members, and hundreds of mourners who gathered in the streets of Fish-Town to pay their respects to one of River Gee’s most influential traditional leaders.
Chief Sayee served for several years as a prominent voice within Liberia’s traditional leadership structure, earning admiration for his wisdom, humility, and dedication to preserving the nation’s cultural heritage and customary values.
During his tenure as Chairman of the River Gee Traditional Council, he played a pivotal role in promoting peace, unity, and social harmony across communities in southeastern River Gee.
His leadership was widely credited for strengthening cooperation among traditional authorities and local residents while fostering reconciliation in times of conflict.
As former Deputy Speaker of the Liberia Traditional Council, Chief Sayee also made important contributions to national conversations surrounding traditional governance, community administration, and the integration of customary leadership into Liberia’s broader democratic framework.
Residents across River Gee County described him as a humble yet influential figure whose leadership style emphasized dialogue, respect, and community empowerment.
Many community members recalled his unwavering commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and advocating for the welfare and development of rural communities.
A native of Potupo Jayproken in River Gee County, Chief Sayee served with distinction as head of the River Gee chapter of the Liberia National Council of Chiefs and Elders, where he earned widespread respect for his integrity and dedication to service.
His death was confirmed by family members on April 22, 2026, from the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, which triggered an outpouring of tributes both within Liberia and among River Gee citizens in the diaspora, popularly known as “Geepos.”
Chief Sayee rose to national prominence during the administration of former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, particularly during her second term in office.
During that period, he became recognized nationally and internationally as a leading representative of Liberia’s traditional leadership.
He was notably part of an international delegation to the United States, underscoring his growing influence and role as a bridge between Liberia’s customary governance system and modern state institutions.
Concerns about his health first emerged approximately seven weeks before his passing when Marcus S. T. Solkroe, a prominent son of River Gee County and former Chief of Office Staff for electoral dstrict 2, publicly appealed for urgent medical support on his behalf.
In a Facebook post dated March 4, 2026, Solkroe disclosed that Chief Sayee was critically ill and undergoing treatment at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia.
Despite efforts to secure additional medical care, the veteran traditional leader later succumbed to his illness.
His death has since renewed calls from citizens, lawmakers, local authorities, and members of the River Gee diaspora for meaningful efforts to honor his contributions and preserve the legacy he leaves behind.
Residents say leaders like Chief James Pah Sayee remain central to Liberia’s governance system, working alongside elected officials to uphold cultural traditions, maintain social order, and advance community development at the grassroots level.
Chief Sayee will be remembered as a devoted traditional leader, a guardian of Liberia’s cultural identity, and a voice of wisdom whose influence transcended River Gee County.
His passing marks not only the loss of a respected elder but also the departure of one of Liberia’s notable custodians of tradition and customary leadership.
The arrival of his remains in Fish Town marks the beginning of funeral ceremonies and memorial activities expected to attract dignitaries, elders, traditional leaders, and citizens from across Liberia.
Family members and local authorities have continued to express profound sorrow over his passing, noting that Liberia has lost one of its most respected traditional statesmen.
Funeral rites and traditional ceremonies are expected to continue in the coming days as River Gee County prepares to bid farewell to one of its distinguished sons.
See less
