Grand Gedeh County Senator and ex-rebel leader Thomas Yaya Nimely has linked the death of Nimba County Senator Prince Yormie Johnson to the emotional toll and fear surrounding the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) in Liberia.
Speaking during a tribute at the Senate’s plenary session on December 3, 2024, Nimely claimed that Johnson’s deteriorating state stemmed from feelings of betrayal by the Unity Party government and his deep concern over the WECC’s implications for his past actions during Liberia’s civil war.
Senator Johnson, a former leader of the Independent National Patriotic Front of Liberia (INPFL) and a central figure in Liberia’s post-war politics, reportedly expressed dismay after the resolution to establish the WECC was signed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
Johnson, who had long sought forgiveness for his wartime actions and attempted to rehabilitate his image through community service and spiritual leadership, felt abandoned by those he had supported, according to Nimely.
During the session, Nimely recalled a poignant conversation with Johnson shortly after the Senate signed the resolution. He detailed how Johnson’s hands trembled as he reluctantly signed the document, feeling pressured and isolated. “Senator Johnson felt let down. He sat here, he never looked at me, neither did he say anything to me,” Nimely recounted.
Nimely revealed that Johnson had confided in him about an interview with Dr. Alan White, an advocate for the Court’s establishment, which had deeply troubled Johnson. “He sent me the interview and asked me to read and listen. When we got to the Senate the following day, he reminded me about the interview,” Nimely said. Johnson’s fear and anxiety over the Court’s potential repercussions reportedly weighed heavily on him, contributing to his declining health.
Beyond politics, Nimely emphasized Johnson’s efforts at redemption, citing his spiritual endeavors and contributions to Liberia’s development. Johnson, who opened a church and constructed schools, had long sought to make amends for his role in the civil war. “He asked for forgiveness and worked tirelessly for reconciliation. He paid his due,” Nimely asserted, urging Liberians to practice forgiveness and unity.
Nimely compared Johnson’s journey to the biblical Saul, who sought redemption despite his controversial past. He called on critics to let go of grievances and recognize Johnson’s efforts to atone for his actions. “Those who are alive and don’t want to forgive him are not God,” Nimely said.
The session, dedicated to honoring Johnson, highlighted his role as a key supporter of President Boakai’s presidential campaign. However, Nimely claimed that Johnson felt betrayed when the WECC resolution was passed without his knowledge, further intensifying his distress.
Although the exact cause of Johnson’s death remains unclear, Nimely maintains that the fear, betrayal, and emotional toll of the Court’s establishment were significant factors. He called on Liberians to honor Johnson’s memory by embracing forgiveness and working towards national reconciliation. Senator Johnson, 72, passed away early Thursday morning, November 28, 2024, at a local Hope of Women Hospital in Paynesville, Monrovia.
