By Princess Kossigba – KMTV Executive Mansion Reporter
Late Liberian President, Williams Richard Tolbert Jr., on July 1, 2025, received the final honor of reburial after 45 years.
Tolbert was killed on April 12, 1980 during a coup d’etat.
After a series of engagements with members of the late President Tolbert family, the Liberian government through President Joseph Nyuma Boakai successfully reburied the late president Tolbert and 13 of his officials who were placed on a firming squad by late President Samuel K. Doe.
It is believed that the ceremony was held in the spirit of national unity and reconciliation.
Speaking at the memorial service held in Monrovia, on Tuesday July 1, 2025, President Boakai disclosed that, the move is aimed at reawakening national conciousness, a moment to restore dignity, acknowledge historical wrongs and reaffirm collective commitment to truth, justice and reconciliation.
According to him, the late Tolbert led Liberia during a time of tremendous transitions, both at home and across the African continent.
“We can’t reflect on this moment without acknowledging the arc of pain that has shaped our nation’s journey” he added.
Speaking further the Liberian Chief Executive detailed that the younger generation needs to be taught about the life and leadership of former president Tolbert not only as head of state but as a symbol of faith, and hope in public service.
Meanwhile, after the memorial service President Boakai led a ceremony dedicating a newly constructed Memorial site in honor of the late President William Richard Tolbert, Jr. and the 13 government officials who were brutally executed following the April 12, 1980 military coup.
The dedication took place at the Liberian Baptist Theological Seminary in Paynesville, where the museum now stands as a national symbol of remembrance, reconciliation, and renewed commitment to justice and peace.
The event was attended by an array of dignitaries, including former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, First Lady, Kartumu Y. Boakai, the Speaker, Senate Pro-temp and members of the Legislature, government officials, members of the clergy, representatives of the diplomatic corps, representation of the Doe family and the bereaved families of the fallen statesmen.
In his remake, the Liberian leader described the dedication as “a national duty and an act of moral restitution,” emphasizing that remembering the painful chapters of Liberia’s history is essential to healing and building a more united future.
“This memorial is not just for those whose lives were taken—it is a tribute to the democratic ideals for which they stood,” President Boakai said.
“Their memories will forever inspire our journey toward a more just, peaceful, and accountable nation.” He narrated.
