— A mentor, father figure, and a political beacon
In a heartfelt tribute, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung honored the late Nimba County senior senator, Prince Y. Johnson, recalling the profound impact Johnson had on his political career. From mentoring Koung in 2010 to guiding his rise to the Senate, Johnson’s unwavering support and belief in his leadership shaped not only Koung’s journey but also the future of Nimba County’s political landscape.
Speaking at the Capitol Building in Monrovia recently at a ceremony to honor the memory of the late Senator, Vice President Koung described the late senator as a political mentor and a father figure who significantly influenced his path to leadership.
The Vice President began his tribute by recounting a pivotal moment in 2010 when Senator Johnson first introduced him to the political arena. Koung, who was then vying for the Nimba County District #1 seat, was running on Johnson’s party ticket. “I will forever be grateful to Senator Johnson for believing in me and guiding me into the political arena,” Koung said, recalling how the late senator’s endorsement was instrumental in his victory in the 2011 representative elections.
Koung highlighted the vital role Johnson played in his subsequent political successes, particularly his election to the Senate. He recounted a key moment in 2020 when Johnson urged him to prepare for a new challenge.
“Get ready, Jeremiah. The Senate needs you,” Johnson had told him. Motivated by his mentor’s words, Koung went on to secure his seat as a senator for Nimba County on the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) ticket.
Ahead of the 2023 general elections, Senator Johnson’s influence remained a guiding force. Koung shared that Johnson had encouraged him to assume the role of political leader and standard-bearer of the MDR.
At the party’s convention in Ganta, Johnson cast a white-ballot vote for Koung as the MDR’s standard-bearer. “You have the vision and the passion; the people will follow you,” Johnson had said, underscoring his unshakable belief in Koung’s leadership abilities.
Reflecting on their relationship, Koung made it clear that his political journey would not be complete without mentioning the late senator’s influence. “He was not just a mentor; he was a father figure in this journey,” Koung said, emphasizing Johnson’s role in shaping his political aspirations.
The Vice President also acknowledged Johnson’s support for former Vice President Joseph N. Boakai’s presidential bid, noting that Johnson’s guidance extended beyond his own political trajectory.
In closing, Vice President Koung expressed deep gratitude for having had the privilege to learn from and work alongside Senator Prince Y. Johnson. “Senator Johnson will always be a guiding light for us in our political endeavors,” Koung stated, his voice filled with emotion.
The tribute highlighted not only the late senator’s political acumen but also his lasting legacy as a mentor who profoundly influenced the lives of those he supported.
Speaker Richard Koon described the late Prince Y. Johnson as a savior of Liberia’s political dispensation. “I salute you, Honorable Senator Johnson. May your soul rest in perfect peace,” he remarked.
Senator Ble- Gbo Brown also extended condolences to the bereaved families, the children, and the people of Nimba, offering spiritual solace: “We at the Liberian Senate leave you at the cross of Jesus. We cannot provide the answers you seek; it is only at the cross that you will find comfort. Please take heart.”
He reflected on the day’s sorrow and the legacy of Senator Johnson, who served the Liberian Senate in various capacities. Johnson chaired the Committee on Defense, National Security, and Veteran Affairs for many years and represented the Senate at the ECOWAS Parliament, serving with diligence and distinction.
Most recently, Senator Johnson chaired the Committee on Internal Affairs, Governance, and Reconciliation. Senator Ble- Gbo Brown recalled working closely with Johnson on the proposed Ministry of Local Government bill, which Johnson passionately advocated for. “The week before he passed, he called me and asked, ‘Distinguished, when will we pass this bill?’” Koon recounted, highlighting Johnson’s dedication to governance even in his final days.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees were reminded of Senator Prince Y. Johnson’s pivotal role in shaping Liberia’s political landscape, particularly in Nimba County. His mentorship and leadership have left an indelible mark, with Vice President Koung pledging to carry forward the lessons learned from his late mentor. Johnson’s enduring legacy will continue to resonate, ensuring that his contributions to Liberia are not forgotten.
