From: TQ Harris and Family
The PYJ That I Came to Know
Early one morning, the phone rang and I answered: Hello!
At the other end, a strong, high-pitch voice sounded: “My brother, this is Prince Johnson calling from Nigeria! How are you? I’ve been reading your writings on the Internet and felt the need to introduce myself. We have to talk.
It soon dawned on me that I was speaking with PYJ – a man whom I had heard and read much about but had not met or spoken to until this moment. This call marked the beginning of a rich relationship that afforded me a deeper insight into Liberia’s brutal internecine war; better understanding of principal actors in the war; and, reasons for the proliferation of warring factions. At this stage, I had fully dedicated myself to work along side others to end the Liberian Civil War and restore peace in the country. Hence, I was instantly drawn to anyone inclined to this end.
General Prince Yeduo Johnson, who reluctantly became Senator of Nimba County, had been a central figure in the violence that engulfed Liberia from 1989 thru 2003. Now exiled in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he had seen my organization’s work to restore peace in Liberia and was driven to contact us. It was clear he sought an open line of communication. Right from the start, PYJ commended me for participating in the 1997 Special Elections as a presidential candidate.
The unexpected phone call from General Johnson began a series of conversations between he and I that continued through President Charles Taylor’s forced exit from Liberia. After numerous hours of discussions, I came to know the mind of PYJ and also gained better understanding of the Liberian conflict. Connecting with PYJ was extremely helpful. Apart from occasional visits in the country, I lived abroad and hadn’t been involved in the local politics.
As it became certain that President Taylor would be forced to vacate the presidency and leave the country, PYJ informed me that he was in the process of returning to Liberia. He suggested that I should do likewise, so “we could constructively contribute to post-war reconstruction.” At the time of this discussion, I was living in the U.S. and had no intention of relocating to Liberia anytime soon, especially after witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by the war.
As a presidential candidate in the 1997 Special Elections, I was fully aware of the physical and emotional damage to the country and its people. Post-war reconstruction would pose enormous challenges; hence, the idea of returning was in no way appealing.
PYJ, on the other hand, strongly believed that once Charles Taylor was out of the picture, reconciliation and reconstruction would proceed at a rapid pace. “Having people like you involved in the rebuilding process,” he intimated, “will serve the country well.” Nothing I said or attempted to explained would change his perception. His optimism was infectious. Eventually, I gave in and promised to return to Liberia before the 2005 general elections. Unfortunately, I was unable to fulfill the promise due to unforeseeable circumstances.
However, in 2011, I did return to Liberia. It was on this occasion that PYJ and TQ had the opportunity to meet in person for the first time. The warm, fraternal embrace at his party’s headquarters further strengthened our relationship and elevated it to a higher degree. In the intervening years, Senator Johnson and I held discussions on a wide range of subjects, including the future of Nimba County as well as Liberia’s growth, development, and transformation.
Senator Johnson was a deep thinker with a clear vision for Liberia’s transformation, though at times he appeared distracted.
There is no doubt Senator Johnson loved Liberia, evidenced by his thoughts on post-war recovery. Realizing the complexities of being an active participant in the conflict and to later become a post-war leader would present a major challenge; he initially decided not to seek elected office upon his return from exile. This philosophy formed the basis of his book entitled: “The Gun That Liberates Should Not Rule.” Notwithstanding, when other principal actors in the war sought to obtain elected office, PYJ was hardpressed to provide leadership and protection for the people of Nimba County. He therefore ran for the Senate and won with a landslide victory.
As a professional soldier, PYJ always sought what was best for the Liberian people. As a Senator, his actions were in line with the majority population and he supported whomever and whatever the people desired. As a son of Nimba, he worked tirelessly to make the county better and more prosperous. Arguably, PYJ is leaving Nimba County in a better condition than it was when he was first elected. His proactive stance as a national leader have impacted the lives of countless citizens across the country.
Notably, as a Christian and preacher of the Gospel, PYJ has advanced the Kingdom of God and won countless souls for Christ.
This we all can agree upon: Prince Yeduo Johnson was a devout Christian, yet tolerant of religious differences.
Nimba County has loss a great son. Liberia has loss a true leader who remained faithful to the oath he took as a young solider, in 1974, to protect and defend the Republic against all foreign and domestic enemies.
Senator Johnson – my friend and brother, it indeed was an honour and a delight to know you. Thank you for making the surprised call on that fateful morning. Your recognition and acknowledgement of a fellow patriot and son of Nimba County is highly commendable and speaks to your true character. Now that you have run your race successfully, go and receive your reward.
May your soul rest in enteral peace.
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