Monrovia — Former Liberian president, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has shared a “profound sorrow” over the passing of her second son, Charles Sirleaf, who died on, Monday, June 3.
By Jaheim T. Tumu
In a touching post on Twitter, the 85-year-old said it is always difficult for any mother losing a child. She, however, described her son, Charles Sirleaf’s passing at age 68, as an “unimaginable loss.”
She wrote: “It is with profound sorrow that I share the passing of my beloved 2nd son yesterday morning. It is always difficult for any mother losing a child, and my heart aches with this unimaginable loss. Your thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated during this incredibly difficult time.”
More condolence messages pour in for Madam Sirleaf
The U.S Embassy in Monrovia expressed the condolences on behalf of the American people. In a Facebook post, U.S Embassy wrote, “We would like to express our condolences to the family of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on the passing of her son, Charles Sirleaf.”
Vice President, Jeremiah Koung paid a courtesy to console former President Sirleaf. In a conversation with Johnson-Sirleaf at her Sinkor residence, Vice President Koung expressed his profound regrets and prayed that God consoles her and the family during this time of bereavement.
Nimba County Senator Prince Y. Johnson, in a simple Facebook caption said, “This hurt,” before expressing his sympathy to Madam Sirleaf.
Senator Johnson described Charles Sirleaf as “a statesman who played a pivotal role in the development of the country.” “May God console you through these sad moments,” he said.
The Mayor of Freetown, Sierra Leone, Yvonne Aki- Sawyerr, offered her deepest and heartfelt condolences to Madam Sirleaf through her Facebook post. She wrote: “My mentor and friend HE Madame Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on the devastating loss of her son Charles. May his soul rest in peace and may God comfort and console HE Madame Ellen and her entire family.”
Mr. Sirleaf was a prominent figure in Liberia’s financial sector, serving as Deputy Governor and Acting Executive Governor under three presidents and an interim government from 2004 to 2020. During his tenure, he was known for his efforts to stabilize the country’s economy and implement critical financial reforms.
Charles Sirleaf served as Deputy Governor for Operations at the Central Bank of Liberia from 2012 to 2020. During this period, he temporarily held the position of Executive Governor following the resignation of then-Governor Mill Jones. After Governor Milton Weeks’ appointment as Executive Governor, Sirleaf returned to his post as Deputy Governor for Operations.
