By Bill W. Cooper
During a gathering marked by grief and reflection, members of the Legislature convened in the rotunda of the Capitol Building yesterday, paying tribute to their late colleague, former Senate Pro-tempore, Senator Cletus Wotorson as he laid in State.
The occasion, which marked the signing of the Book of Condolence, was a sad reminder of Wotorson’s unwavering commitment to Liberia and the indelible marks he left on the hearts of those who knew him.
Cletus Segbe Wotorson, a prominent Liberian geologist, politician and former President Pro-tempore of the Senate, died on August 13, 2024, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to the citizenry of Liberia.
However, as members from the House of Representatives and Liberian Senate entered the Rotunda of the Capitol, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of celebration for a life well-lived amidst deep sorrow.
During the eulogy, Speaker Fonati Koffa recalled Wotorson’s early days in politics, highlighting his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a respected leader across Liberia.
“Cletus was not just a colleague, he was a brother, a mentor, and a friend. He embodied the spirit of Liberia, always striving for a better future for our people and the country at large,” he lamented.
Speaker Koffa noted that the name Cletus Wotorson, made indelible marks in Liberia and he will be remembered for his contributions to the country over the years of his service.
According to him, the fallen statesman’s dedication and service will not be forgotten, and he will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the country.
Also, several other lawmakers including Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah and other Senators further shared personal anecdotes that illustrated Wotorson’s character during his time at the Legislature.
They also described him as a man of integrity who never wavered in his principles, and added, “Cletus stood for what was right, even when it was unpopular. He was a beacon of hope in our political landscape.”
Sen. Pro-tempore, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, lamented, “We owe it to Cletus to carry on his fight for a better Liberia. Let us honor his memory by working together for the common good of our country and citizenry.”
Wotorson, a distinguished figure in Liberia’s political and academic landscape was born on March 13, 1937, in Grand Kru County, as his career spanned various sectors, including government, academia, and the private sector.
A geologist by profession, Wotorson served as Assistant Professor of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Liberia and later as Director of the Liberian Geological Survey.
He also held ministerial positions, serving as Minister of Lands and Mines and Chairman of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company while his political career reached its zenith when he was elected Pro-tempore in 2009, a position he held until 2012.
Wotorson was also a presidential candidate in the 1997 elections, representing the Alliance of Political Parties and beyond his political and professional accomplishments, Wotorson was known for his candid views on Liberian politics and history.
He recently authored a book titled “Acceptance,” which provided a detailed account of his life and career, offering unique perspectives on Liberia’s past and present.
