Monrovia — Former President George Weah has reaffirmed his long-standing relationship with the Doe family, dispelling widespread rumors of a rift and paying tribute to former First Lady Nancy B. Doe during a condolence visit to her home in Sinkor, Monrovia.
By Willie Tokpah
The visit, which took place on June 8, was a symbolic gesture aimed at honoring the legacy of the late First Lady while publicly emphasizing unity and solidarity between Weah and the Doe family, particularly in light of social media speculation suggesting tension between both sides.
“I treated the late Mama Nancy Doe with respect. We should not allow people to spoil the relationship between us. We are one people. We need peace,” Weah told family members and traditional leaders gathered at the home.
The late Nancy B. Doe was the widow of Liberia’s 21st President, Samuel Kanyon Doe, and had remained an iconic figure in Liberian political and cultural life. Her death marked the end of an era for many, particularly in Grand Gedeh County, the stronghold of the Doe political legacy.
Weah’s visit was accompanied by several high-profile figures, including former Foreign Minister Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah and former Chief of Protocol Ambassador Nora Finda Bundoo. Representing both the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and his personal family, Weah extended formal condolences and made several donations in support of the funeral arrangements.
The former president donated $5,000 USD, 50 bags of rice, and pledged two large cows, describing the contribution as a demonstration of his “natural love” for the Doe family and the people of Grand Gedeh County.
“The honor I received from the people of Grand Gedeh was not bought. Instead, it is a natural love,” Weah said emotionally. “I came here today because we are family, not just in politics but in heart.”
In his tribute, Weah highlighted the late First Lady’s legacy, describing her as a national figure whose influence extended far beyond her role as a presidential spouse.
“Madam Doe was not just the wife of a former president. She was a mother, a leader, and a symbol of strength and grace for many Liberians,” he said. “We are here not just because she is gone, but because her legacy lives on.”
The Doe family welcomed Weah with open arms. Former Senate Pro-Tempore Isaac Nyenabo, speaking on behalf of the family, described the former president as “a brother,” noting that his presence was a testament to deep and enduring bonds.
“Your presence is not only a sign of respect for her memory but a testament to the strong bond and deep relationship you shared with her and with us as a family,” Nyenabo said.
Madam Veronica Mamie Doe, daughter of the late former First Lady, echoed the sentiment. “Your expression of sympathy and support means a great deal to us, and we truly appreciate the condolences you have extended,” she said.
During the visit, traditional leaders from Grand Gedeh honored Weah with the cultural title “Koryeenoh,” meaning “Rescuer,” in recognition of his efforts to promote peace and national unity in Liberia.
Weah’s visit and message of solidarity come at a sensitive time, as Liberia navigates political transitions and national healing. His public reaffirmation of unity with the Doe family—often seen as symbolic representatives of Grand Gedeh’s political legacy—has been interpreted by many as a deliberate move to reinforce national cohesion.
The passing of Nancy B. Doe has prompted a wave of condolences and reflections across the country, with leaders from various sectors acknowledging her role in Liberia’s political history and her resilience in the aftermath of Liberia’s civil unrest.
The funeral date for the late First Lady Nancy B. Doe has not yet been formally announced.