MONROVIA – Without any gainsaying, the sudden passing of Nimba County Senator Prince Yormie Johnson has opened vast opportunities for introspection on the part of myriad Liberians whose lives were directly or indirectly impacted by the actions of the Nimba strongman, for good or bad. And for the hardest-hit citizens of Nimba County who are reeling from the shock of Senator Johnson’s passing, there is never a more propitious time than now to unite. Drawing from the complexities that marked the life of his fallen countryman, Nimba County Electoral District #7 Representative Musa Hassan Bility has used the opportunity to call on his fellow Nimbaians to unite and find a common ground for the sake of the country.
Making the clarion call in a position statement on November 28, 2024, few hours after news of Senator Johnson’s passing began to make the rounds, Representative Bility said Johnson’s departure leaves a void in the people of Nimba County and their politics – a void which cannot be easily filled.
“Today, we mourn the passing of Senator Prince Johnson, a man who was many things to many people—a leader, a liberator, a controversial figure, and a symbol of unity and division. His life and legacy are deeply intertwined with the history of Liberia, particularly with the people of Nimba County. As we reflect on his journey, we acknowledge the complexities of his impact, the emotions he evokes, and the lessons his life leaves behind.
“There will be no replacement for him—no second Prince Johnson. But his passing gives us a profound opportunity: to unite as a people, to reflect on our shared history, and to chart a path forward together. It is my hope that his legacy will serve as a bridge rather than a divide, a chance for us to come together, respect each other’s perspectives, and find common ground for the sake of Liberia,” Representative Bility passionately appealed to his fellow Nimbaians.
Reflecting on the life of the fallen Nimba County Senator, Representative Bility acknowledged the complexities that marked Johnson’s life, wherein he represented different values to different sets of Liberians at the same time.
“Prince Johnson was a man of many purposes, a man who meant different things to different people. His life reflects the complexity of our nation’s journey. May his passing be a turning point for us all—a moment to strengthen our resolve to heal, unite, and build a Liberia where all voices are heard and respected.
“For some, Senator Johnson was a hero who stood as a liberator for Nimba. He represented hope and resilience, fighting for his people and their rightful place in the fabric of Liberia. He changed our political dynamics significantly, influencing critical elections in 2011, 2017, and 2023. His efforts to unite Nimba, especially in times of division, cannot be overlooked. He deliberately ensured that my election symbolized unity and reconciliation; for that, I am deeply thankful. His influence shaped the trajectory of our region and will be remembered as a force in our political landscape.
“For others, he represented pain and trauma, a reminder of Liberia’s turbulent history and the scars it left behind. His life embodies the many faces of the Liberian conflict—the good, the bad, and the deeply painful. We do not shy away from acknowledging the excesses and the anguish that some endured. It is a part of his legacy that must be respected and understood, even as we celebrate his contributions.
“As Nimbains, we are not ashamed to honor him. We recognize his role as a pivotal figure in our history, someone who fought for his people and reshaped our nation’s political discourse. Yet, in honoring him, we also extend our respect to those whose memories of him are marked by hurt. We hope his passing will provide closure to those who suffered, a sense of peace to those who grieve, and a chance for our nation to heal.
“Let us use this moment to commit ourselves to unity, reconciliation, and development. As leaders, as young people, as women, and as elders of Nimba and Liberia, let us agree to disagree with dignity and purpose. Together, we must work to ensure that our country rises above division and fulfills its potential,” Rep. Bility appealed passionately.
“Rest in peace, Senator. May your soul and the souls of all the faithful departed find peace with the Creator. May your legacy inspire us to confront our past with honesty and move forward with courage and hope,” Bility said.
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