President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has taken steps to address a significant chapter in Liberia’s history by establishing a National Committee for the reburial of former Presidents William R. Tolbert, Jr. and Samuel Kanyon Doe. The announcement follows President Boakai’s commitment, made during his Annual Message on January 27, 2025, to provide dignified burials for these leaders and their cabinet members.
This move is part of broader efforts aimed at fostering national unity and reconciliation in Liberia. By addressing the past events surrounding the deaths of these presidents—Tolbert was killed in April 1980 along with his cabinet members, and Doe was slain during the civil war—the government seeks to bring closure to this painful period.
The Reburial Committee comprises several notable figures including Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah as Chairperson, who is currently serving as Minister of Education. Other committee members include Bishop James B. Sellee from the Episcopal Church of Liberia, Bishop Samuel J. Quire from the United Methodist Church, Senator Zoe Pennue representing Grand Gedeh County, Senator Abraham Darius Dillon from Montserrado County, Mrs. Clavendar Parker as a senior citizen representative, Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott who is a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Brigadier General Davidson Fayiah Forleh from the Armed Forces of Liberia, Ambassador Ethel Davis from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Policy Advisory Council (PAC), and others.
Dr. Jallah brings extensive experience in academia and public administration to her role as Chairperson. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Delaware State University and has over two decades of expertise in strategic planning and management.
The initiative aims not only at providing proper burial rites but also at acknowledging Liberia’s complex history while promoting dialogue and understanding among its people for a peaceful future.
