Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung on Saturday, November 29, 2025, paid tribute to the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson during the Unity Party’s GB Festival in Ganta, describing the fallen Nimba statesman as a central figure in the party’s rise to national leadership.
Koung told attendees that his visit to Nimba was not for political mobilization but to honor the memory of Senator Johnson, who passed away a day earlier.
“I didn’t come to Nimba because of a rally; I came here because yesterday marked the day Senator Johnson left us,” Koung said. “We are here to recognize that day and honor him.”
He stressed that the Unity Party’s 2023 electoral victory could not be fully understood without acknowledging Johnson’s political influence and support.
“You cannot talk about the victory of the Unity Party without mentioning Senator Johnson,” the vice president noted, highlighting the partnership that helped deliver Nimba’s overwhelming backing.
Koung urged the audience to embrace gratitude as a guiding value, arguing that political progress is difficult for those who fail to appreciate their allies.
“And I always say: gratitude pays. Most people who are ungrateful don’t go far,” he said.
The vice president added that the government intends to uphold Johnson’s legacy not only through tributes but also through policies tied to Nimba’s development priorities.
“So, we will remain grateful to Senator Johnson-as a government, as a people, and as a party,” he declared.
He further pledged that the Unity Party would continue to publicly acknowledge the late senator’s role in shaping Liberia’s political landscape. “Everywhere we go, we will say: Senator, thank you.”
Koung’s remarks drew applause from the crowd, many of whom credited Johnson with strengthening Nimba’s political influence over the past two decades.
Local leaders at the event described Johnson as a complex but consequential figure whose impact extended well beyond the county.
The GB Festival, attended by traditional leaders, students, elders, and party supporters, paused briefly for a moment of silence as attendees reflected on Johnson’s life and legacy.
Despite rising political tensions nationwide, Koung urged Nimbaians to remain united as they mourn a figure that played a defining role in shaping the county’s modern political identity.
As tributes continue across the country, the government is expected to announce additional plans to honor Senator Johnson’s contributions in the coming days.
