Paynesville — Liberia’s former President George Weah has expressed profound sadness over the demise of former District #9 Representative of Nimba County, Johnson Gwaikolo, emphasizing that his passing is a significant loss to Liberia.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972) – [email protected]
“He contributed significantly to this country, and it’s important that we honor his memory. He was not only an uncle but also a friend to me. His loss is deeply felt by the nation,” President Weah shared during his visit to the late statesman’s home in Paynesville.
Before his passing on February 19, 2034, the former Nimba County Representative had contested in the October 2023 Legislative election but was unsuccessful.
According to family sources, Gwaikolo’s sudden demise occurred at the St. Joseph Catholic Hospital in Monrovia, and the exact cause of his death remains undetermined. News of his passing has deeply saddened residents of Nimba County and the entire nation.
Former Liberian leader, along with several former government officials, visited the home of the late Gwaikolo on Thursday, March 7, 2024, acknowledging his seniority within the Coalition for Democratic Change.
Following a closed-door meeting with Madam Gifty Gwaiko, the wife of the former Representative, and other family members, the former Liberian leader conveyed to journalists that the nation had lost a great statesman.
“It’s a somber moment for us all. He was not just a family friend but also a former colleague. He used to visit me every morning before heading to work. We had planned to meet, but unfortunately, I received the news of his passing while I was returning home,” former President Weah expressed.
Expressing his grief, he continued, “I’m deeply saddened by this loss. We shared many good moments together. He was a remarkable individual, and though we may not comprehend the ways of the divine, may his soul find peace. His contributions to our country will always be remembered.”
Former Rep. Gwaikolo was esteemed as both a seasoned politician and an educator. He served as the Representative of Nimba District #9 for six years in the 54th Legislature, during which he chaired the Committee on Education and later assumed the role of Chair on the House Committee on Rules Order and Administration.
Despite his unsuccessful bid for reelection in 2023, losing to current Representative Taa Wongbe, his legacy in the 54th Legislature marked his second term in the legislative body, following his service in the National Legislative Assembly during the Civil War.
Outside of the Legislature, the late Gwaikolo served as Deputy Minister of Public Works during the administration of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and as President of the United Methodist University (UMU).
