President Joseph N. Boakai is advocating for dignified burials for former Presidents Tolbert and Doe and 13 officials executed in the 1980 coup. A National Committee has been formed to oversee this initiative, which has already led to the exhumation and reburying of Tolbert’s remains. However, the mystery surrounding Doe’s remains persists, while Boakai’s administration emphasizes accountability through the establishment of a war crimes court and investigations into recent deaths.
In Liberia, President Joseph N. Boakai is dedicated to ensuring a dignified burial for former Presidents William R. Tolbert and Samuel K. Doe, both of whom were violently overthrown and subsequently killed. This move is crucial for Liberia’s efforts toward peace and reconciliation after enduring a brutal civil war. Additionally, 13 officials from Tolbert’s government, executed following the 1980 coup led by Doe, will also receive official burials.
The National Committee for the Reburial of Tolbert and Doe, headed by Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, has been established. The committee includes significant figures such as Bishop James B. Sellee and former Chief Justice Gloria Musu Scott. This group is focused on honoring the memory of those who lost their lives during the coup, representing a collaborative effort to preserve their legacy amid the turbulent history of Liberia.
Recently, the remains of President Tolbert and the 13 executed officials were exhumed and reburied at the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary grounds. While this initiative has been warmly welcomed, uncertainties remain regarding the whereabouts of Samuel Doe’s remains, complicating the historical narrative of his death.
Samuel Doe faced a violent demise after being captured by the Independent National Patriotic Front of Liberia (INPFL) led by Prince Y. Johnson, who admitted in 2008 that Doe’s body was burned and his ashes scattered into a river. This revelation raises questions regarding the authenticity of the claims and the actual location of Doe’s remains.
A recent communication from a close aide of the Interim Government of National Unity prompted speculation about the potential existence of Doe’s skull, allegedly shown to the aide by Johnson, which raises critical investigative opportunities in locating Doe’s remains. Given the turbulent history, efforts must be directed towards investigating the claims about Doe’s skull’s current status.
President Boakai is positioning himself as a figure of accountability in Liberia. His administration has taken steps toward establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (WECCL) to address past atrocities and ensure justice for victims. Furthermore, he has initiated investigations into mysterious deaths, including auditors associated with alleged financial misconduct during the previous administration.
The president’s push for international expertise in sensitive investigations, like the Capitol Building fire, is commendable, as professionalism is essential in these processes. However, further attention is needed for the current lawlessness involving Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) personnel misconduct against police officers, to prevent future unrest as Liberia faces systemic challenges in governance and stability.
President Boakai’s commitment to honoring former Presidents Tolbert and Doe underlines Liberia’s journey toward peace and reconciliation. While the initiative has garnered public support, the mystery surrounding Doe’s remains poses significant challenges. With the establishment of the WECCL and investigations into unresolved cases of violence, Boakai is paving a path for accountability. The call for international assistance illustrates a commendable approach toward adhering to rule of law, which is crucial for the nation’s stability.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
