The Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) has expressed disappointment over what it describes as a disrespectful act by former President George M. Weah during a visit to the home of the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson in Paynesville.
MDR was founded by the late Senator Johnson. Vice President Jeremiah Koung served as Political Leader of the Party just before he was chosen by President Boakai to serve as his running mate in the 2017 election. Koung has since clarified that he is no longer a member of the MDR but a member of Unity Party.
According to the MDR, President Weah refused a handshake extended by Vice President Jeremiah Koung, who approached him in a gesture of welcome at the residence.
The party also claims the former president avoided shaking hands with other leaders from Nimba County present at the gathering.
In a statement signed by Kelvin D. J. Mattaldi, National Vice Chair for Public Affairs of the MDR and Chair of the funeral’s Public Affairs Committee, the party described the act as a “gross disrespect” to Nimba County’s leaders and community, particularly during a time of mourning.
“Both traditionally and conventionally, extending a handshake is our way of saying welcome and expressing gratitude to visitors, well-wishers, and sympathizers,” the statement read.
It added “Such gross disrespect to any of our leaders of Nimba County during our bereavement is also a disservice to the entire Nimba community.”
The MDR further called on the former president to set aside any political differences with the county and its leaders, emphasizing that the death of the late Senator Johnson should be a unifying moment, not a cause for division.
The party noted that Senator Johnson was a towering figure not just in Nimba but across Liberia, and his legacy demands respect and unity.
Meanwhile, a viral Video seen by DNNL shows Weah laying his hand on his chest despite a handshake being extended him by Vice President Jeremiah Koung.
