-A Complex Legacy
By Jerromie S. Walters
The recent passing of influential Nimba County Senator Prince Y. Johnson on November 28, 2024, marks a significant chapter in Liberia’s tumultuous political history. Johnson, who was confirmed dead at the Hope for Women Clinic in Paynesville City, was last seen honoring the legacy of former Togolese President Gnassingbe Eyadema just days before his death. As Liberia reflects on Johnson’s life, WomenVoices analyzes the complex interplay of his past as a warlord, his political maneuvering, and the implications of his legacy for the future of the country.
From Warlord to Religious Leader and Politician
Born on July 6, 1952, Prince Yormie Johnson emerged from the chaos of the First Liberian Civil War as both a notorious rebel leader and a prominent political figure. Initially serving as an officer in the Armed Forces of Liberia, he allied with Charles Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) when the conflict erupted in 1989. Johnson’s rise to power was marked by brutality and violence, culminating in the formation of his splinter group, the Independent National Patriotic Front of Liberia (INPFL), which was responsible for the capture, torture, and execution of former President Samuel Doe in 1990.
In 1990, rebel soldiers from Johnson’s Independent National Patriotic Front of Liberia captured President Samuel Doe and were then, in front of their leader, filmed mutilating him – his ear was sliced off – before he was killed. The warlord later expressed regret for what had happened, but, as quoted by the AFP news agency, justified his role in the war, saying he was defending “my country, my people, who were led to the slaughterhouse as if they were chickens and goats, by the Doe regime”. He also said he had changed and had become a pastor in his evangelical church.
The civil war devastated Liberia, resulting in over 250,000 deaths and a staggering economic loss estimated at $10 billion. Johnson’s role in this violence has made him a controversial figure, often cited in discussions about the need for accountability and justice in Liberia. His actions during the war have led many to call for the establishment of a war and economic crimes court, highlighting the ongoing struggle to address the legacy of impunity in the country.
Johnson was always at the center point when discussions emerge about ending impunity in Liberia. Many, including his colleagues at the Liberian Senate, saw him as a classic example of why there was a need for the establishment of war and economic crimes court in Liberia.
A Shift Towards Accountability
On April 9, 2024, Johnson signed a resolution, alongside 27 other senators endorsing the establishment of a war and economic crimes court in Liberia. This decision was seen as a significant step towards addressing the impunity that has long plagued the nation. Senate Pro-tempore Nyonblee KarngaLawrence hailed the move as a pivotal moment for Liberia, suggesting that it could signal the beginning of a new era of accountability.
However, Johnson’s endorsement was met with skepticism. Many didn’t take it seriously as they have always suggested that he has been on a mission to reshape his legacy in light of his controversial past. The irony of a former warlord signing up for for a court to address war crimes was somehow viewed like he had no other option
Feeling Marginalized: Johnson’s Political Struggles
As a key political player in Nimba County, Johnson wielded significant influence over electoral outcomes, often determining which presidential candidates would gain support from his constituents. His backing of former President George Weah in 2017 proved successful, but their relationship soured over time. By the 2023 elections, Johnson had shifted his support to Joseph Boakai, a decision that would ultimately lead to feelings of neglect and frustration.
Following Boakai’s inauguration, Johnson publicly expressed his discontent with perceived sidelining by the new administration. During a live interview in March 2024, he voiced concerns about the lack of responsiveness from President Boakai and alleged that the president had received financial incentives to endorse the establishment of the war crimes court.
A Call for Recognition and Representation
In a bid to reclaim his influence, Johnson took to social media, urging President Boakai to prioritize the needs of Nimba County in his appointments. His passionate plea emphasized the importance of representation for his constituents, framing it as a matter of justice and recognition for their support during the electoral process.
In a Facebook post late Sunday, February 4, 2024, the fallen Senator called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to prioritize his (Johnson) people in his (Boakai) appointment. He said they were not willing to disgrace the devils they unanimously agreed to address from the bush. Senator Johnson wrote- “Don’t misinterpret my message to the President concerning the people of Nimba today. If it weren’t for Nimba and the electoral college of Liberia, my big brother, President Boakai, wouldn’t be president today. Therefore, Nimba needs to be happy.”
Johnson: “We are not willing to disgrace the devils we unanimously agreed to address from the bush. Mr. President, please listen and make Nimba’s children happy by appointing them in your government. Please take our recommendations seriously and prioritize our children; they deserve better.”
The Legacy of a Controversial Figure
As a politician he was praised by his constituents in Nimbacounty for working to improve their lives. But he also courted controversy. In 2021 Johnson was sanctioned by the US for alleged involvement in so-called pay-for-play funding, where he would reportedly personally benefit from the distribution of government funding to various ministries. He was also accused of selling votes for personal gain in several elections, leading to criticism from some of his allies.
Prince Y. Johnson’s life and career are emblematic of the broader struggles faced by Liberia as it seeks to reconcile its past with the demands of a more just and accountable future. Many say his involvement in the civil war and subsequent political career serve as a reminder of the complexities of leadership in a nation still grappling with the scars of violence and division.
The coming of the WECC
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai signed Executive Order #131 on May 2, 2024, establishing the Office of the War and Economics Crimes Court. President Boakai highlighted the nation’s need to unite in seeking accountability for the violence that plagued Liberia and ensuring that justice is served.
He emphasized the importance of justice and healing in paving the way for peace and harmony to prevail in Liberia. President Boakai acknowledged the historic move by the National Legislature in passing a resolution urging tangible steps toward addressing the issues of the past conflict. The President expressed gratitude to legislators, justice and peace advocacy groups, the interfaith community, and victims for their perseverance in seeking justice.
The President called on all Liberians to support this noble effort in moving the country forward and leaving behind the painful memories of the past. He urged everyone to embrace the values of thinking, loving, and building Liberia as the nation works towards a reconciled and united future. However, many believe that this decision broke Johnson down, especially after he directly supported Boakai’s ascendancy to the presidency.
