By Precious D. Freeman
The daughter of slain Liberian President Samuel K. Doe, Celue Doe-Addo has welcomed the proposed state burial plan announced by President Joseph Boakai for her father and former President William R. Tolbert.
She described the initiative as a bold and healing step for Liberia’s post-war reconciliation journey.
Speaking on a local Liberian radio program on Monday, Madam Doe-Addo, expressed deep gratitude to President Boakai for what she termed as “a long-overdue gesture of honor and healing.”
“I’m deeply honored and grateful to President Joseph Boakai for initiating this process,” she said. “Nobody has cared to think of doing this before. This will help in the healing of Liberia—giving a state burial to these presidents. It’s also brilliant public relations for Liberia and says a lot about who President Boakai is.”
She disclosed that she recently met with President Boakai, who encouraged her to play a significant role in the process.
“I accepted, and I hope we all work together to bring closure to this chapter of our history,” she added.
Mrs. Doe-Addo also provided updates on her recent peace and reconciliation tour in Nimba, Grand Gedeh, and Bomi Counties—regions historically affected by tribal and political conflict during Liberia’s civil war.
She described the experience as emotional and inspiring, emphasizing her mission to promote unity.
“I went to Nimba preaching peace, reconciliation, and unity between Nimba and Grand Gedeh. It was exciting to connect with people, including the traditional community and various local organizations. We shared ideas and agreed to chart a new path toward peaceful coexistence,” she said.
She clarified that despite past grievances, she holds no hatred toward the people of Nimba and believes everything happens according to God’s plan.
Doe-Addo revealed that she has built strong relationships in the U.S. with individuals from families historically seen as enemies to the Doe family, including members of the Tolbert, Johnson, and Quiwonkpa’s families.
She recalled the psychological toll of seeing brutal images of her father circulating on Facebook during 2011- 2012, which led her to seek therapy.
“If we Liberians can realize we don’t hate each other, it would be a major step forward. Tribalism is destructive. People were manipulated by lies and propaganda that divided Nimba and Grand Gedeh. Are we satisfied now? Many people lost their families during the war. But we are hopeful and excited for this new beginning,” she concluded.
Slain Fmr. President Doe’s Daughter Backs State Burial Plan
