Africa-Press – Liberia. The Mano River Union (MRU) Sub-Office in Liberia has paid tribute to the late President William R. Tolbert Jr. and several of his senior officials and security personnel who were executed during the 1980 coup.
The memorial, held under the theme “Celebration of Legacies” on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, brought together grieving families, government representatives, and international partners at a newly dedicated memorial site.
The emotional ceremony reflected on one of Liberia’s darkest historical moments while highlighting the importance of truth, reconciliation, and long-term peace.
The event also reaffirmed the MRU’s commitment to honoring historical truth and preserving the legacies of leaders who played key roles in regional integration.
Christian W. Jallah Sr., Resident Coordinator of the MRU Sub-Office in Liberia, delivered a statement on behalf of the MRU Secretariat and its Secretary General, Ambassador Simeon M.B. Moribah.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families and called for continued recognition of the sacrifices made by those who were killed.
“You now understand why it is important that we honor your invitation to celebrate the legacies of those family members who were unlawfully murdered without due process,” Jallah said. “While this is not a political remark, the truth must always prevail. When the truth is spoken and written in our history books, there will be no room for distortion of the facts.”
Jallah underscored Liberia’s strong historical ties to the MRU, noting that four Liberians—Dr. Cyril A. Bright, T. Ernest Eastman, Dr. Augustus F. Caine, and Ambassador Medina A. Wesseh—have served as Secretary General of the regional organization.
He credited President Tolbert and former Sierra Leonean President Siaka Stevens with founding the MRU in 1973, praising their leadership and vision in fostering economic integration, peace, and regional cooperation. He also pointed out that their initiatives helped pave the way for broader continental frameworks like ECOWAS and the African Union.
“Their legacy continues to linger in our day-to-day lives,” Jallah said.
He also acknowledged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s efforts to strengthen national peace and security, noting the administration’s emphasis on reconciliation and rule of law. He described the recent reburial ceremonies for past national leaders as an essential step in healing historical wounds.
“He has sought to reconcile our nation’s peace and security,” Jallah said. “These are key ingredients to Liberia’s future of healing and to take us on the path of lasting peace, security, and reconciliation.”
Addressing the families of those who were killed, Jallah encouraged them to uphold the values passed down by their loved ones. He described those values as sources of personal and national strength that have inspired and challenged many Liberians to become better citizens.
In a moment of reflection, Jallah concluded with words from the hymn “It Is Well With My Soul,” using it as a metaphor for healing and hope. “It is well with my soul, because they are in a better place. It is well with my soul, because the values instilled in us have enabled us to conquer the challenges we face today and those ahead. It is well with my soul, because we have forgiven, and our hearts are in a better place. It is well with my soul, because we trust in God. Liberia will be well.”
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