Monrovia – Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely of Grand Gedeh County has boldly asserted that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai will resign to face prosecution for war crimes as Liberia moves toward establishing a war and economic crimes court.

A former rebel leader of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), Senator Nimely accused President Boakai of alleged ties to the Lofa Defense Force (LDF), a rebel group active during the Liberian Civil War. He expressed confidence that both Boakai and other former warlords would be held accountable.

“I am on the list to be convicted, and he’s on the list to be convicted… But I told them there are 106,000 people; I hope people do that list and prosecute everybody,” Nimely said in an interview with legislative reporters on January 21. He further emphasized that he expects President Boakai to step down once the court begins operations.

The senator also criticized the President for his alleged neglect of the late Nimba County Senator Prince Johnson, who passed away on November 28 after collapsing at his home. Nimely accused President Boakai of failing to honor commitments made to Johnson, including protection from prosecution for war crimes.

During Senator Johnson’s memorial service, Senator Nimely’s tribute sparked significant controversy. He publicly accused President Boakai of betraying Johnson, a claim that drew mixed reactions from the public—some praised Nimely’s courage, while others criticized the comments as ill-timed and inappropriate.

Reflecting on Liberia’s political dynamics, Nimely questioned the integrity of leadership relationships in the country. “As old as Senator Johnson was during the time of the elections, he campaigned vigorously for the election of President Boakai,” Nimely stated, lamenting Boakai’s alleged refusal to engage with Johnson after his election victory.

The senator’s remarks have stirred debate over the political future of Liberia, raising critical questions about accountability for former leaders and the potential implications of the proposed war crimes court.