Palay’s claims are the latest development in the aftermath of the political drama that overshadowed the funeral service.
Ganta, Nimba County – The Youth Chairman of the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR), Czar Mabulu Palay, has alleged that his life is in danger after receiving death threats linked to his controversial remarks during the funeral of the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson (PYJ).
By Jaheim Tumu | [email protected]
“Since this morning, people have been sending me messages that I should leave Nimba because people are looking for me. The comments I made during the funeral of Senator PYJ did not go well with some people,” Palay revealed.
During his remarks at the funeral, Palay launched a fierce critique of the Unity Party (UP) Alliance, accusing its members of abandoning the late Nimba County Senator following the elections. He also reminded Vice President Jeremiah Koung of the significance of the “battle cry,” which he credited for their political success, asserting that some the VP and some leaders now advocating against it have risen to positions of power, including party secretariats and ministerial roles.
Palay’s claims are the latest development in the aftermath of the political drama that overshadowed the funeral service. What was meant to honor the life and legacy of Senator Johnson devolved into a platform for accusations and counteraccusations among political stakeholders.
Grand Gedeh Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely also took aim at the Unity Party Alliance, alleging that Johnson felt betrayed by the administration of President Joseph Boakai despite his critical role in their 2023 electoral success.
According to the MDR, Senator Johnson had been “deeply troubled” by the Unity Party’s push for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court, which the party believes contributed to his demise. “Before our political leader’s death, he had always complained about the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court. We, from the MDR, believe the accompanying pressure from the Unity Party to agree on establishing the court may have led to Senator Johnson’s death,” the party said in a tribute.
However, both President Boakai and Vice President Koung refuted claims that Johnson was betrayed. In separate remarks, they defended the late Senator’s legacy and his stance on the War and Economic Crimes Court.
“Senator Johnson was in full support of the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court,” VP Koung clarified. “That is why he signed the resolution. He was not afraid of the court; in fact, he wanted to use it as a platform to clear his name and set the record straight.”
Palay’s allegations of threats and the ongoing political disputes surrounding the funeral underscore the contentious nature of the late Senator’s political legacy and the polarization within Liberia’s political landscape.
