The Liberian Senate, in an unprecedented move, has handed over the seat of the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson to the people of Nimba County. This decision, a departure from traditional Senate protocol, was made in response to a request from the county’s residents, who wished to preserve the seat in a museum in Sanniquellie as a tribute to Senator Johnson’s eighteen years of service. The Senate typically reserves a deceased senator’s seat, draping it in black and grey until after the burial, at which point the coverings are removed to signify the vacancy. This time, however, the Senate chose to honor the request of the Nimba people, marking a unique moment in Liberian legislative history.
The handover ceremony, held on January 30, 2025, began with a memorial service in the Senate chamber. The Senate mass choir performed two poignant songs, “How Can I Repay You” and “The Lord is My Shepherd,” followed by an exhortation and prayer by a Senate pastor. Senate President Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Kangar Lawrence then delivered a special statement, explaining the Senate’s decision to deviate from standard procedure. She emphasized that the black garments would remain on the seat, symbolizing the loss while simultaneously honoring the request of the Nimba people to preserve the seat as a testament to Senator Johnson’s legacy.
Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung, acknowledging the late senator as his political godfather, expressed his deep sadness at the vacancy. He requested a moment of silence to honor the “fallen doyen” of the Senate, recognizing Senator Johnson’s significant contribution to the legislative body and the nation as a whole. The vacant seat served as a poignant reminder of the senator’s absence and the impact of his passing on the political landscape.
Senator J. Gbleh-bo Brown, Chair on Rule, Order and Administration, formally presented the seat to the people of Nimba County on behalf of the Senate. He conveyed the Senate’s condolences and sympathy to the county, emphasizing the significance of the gesture in honoring their request. This act of handing over the seat underscored the Senate’s respect for the wishes of the Nimba constituents and their desire to commemorate their late senator.
Senator Nyan D. Twayen, Jr., the current lone Senator from Nimba County, accepted the seat with gratitude. He acknowledged the Senate’s consideration in granting their request and highlighted the importance of preserving the seat in the Sanniquellie museum as a symbol of Senator Johnson’s long tenure and influence. He also mentioned the involvement of the Senate President, who is the son of the late senator and the political leader of Nimba County, further emphasizing the personal and political significance of the event.
This unique handover of Senator Johnson’s seat signifies a departure from traditional Senate practice and underscores the importance of honoring the requests of constituents. By preserving the seat in a museum, the people of Nimba County aim to create a lasting memorial to Senator Johnson’s eighteen years of service in the Liberian Senate. The event served not only as a tribute to a fallen senator but also as a demonstration of the Senate’s responsiveness to the desires of the people they represent. The preserved seat will stand as a tangible reminder of Senator Johnson’s legacy and the unique circumstances surrounding his departure from the Senate.
