Prince Johnson, a controversial figure in Liberia’s history who transitioned from a warlord to a senator, has passed away at the age of 72.
Born in Nimba County, northern Liberia, Johnson rose to global infamy during the country’s brutal civil war. In a chilling 1990 video, he was seen drinking a beer as his forces executed then-President Samuel Doe. Doe’s death marked a turning point, plunging Liberia into two civil wars that collectively claimed an estimated 250,000 lives.
Throughout the conflict, Johnson was a prominent militia leader, later forced into exile in Nigeria. Despite the horrors of the war, Johnson never expressed remorse for his actions. He defended his role, claiming he protected civilians from what he described as the atrocities of the Doe regime.
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After returning to Liberia in 2004, Johnson entered politics. In the 2017 presidential election, he garnered over 8% of the vote in the first round, demonstrating his enduring influence. He later served as a senator, a position he held until his death.
Johnson’s life remained a subject of intense debate. For some, he represented a warlord responsible for countless atrocities. For others, particularly in his native Nimba County, he was seen as a protector and political leader.
Johnson’s death closes a significant, though contentious, chapter in Liberia’s history. As the country continues to rebuild from its war-torn past, his legacy will undoubtedly remain a topic of discussion for years to come.
