Former Warlord and Political Kingmaker Prince Johnson Passes Away at 72

Prince Johnson, a former Liberian warlord known for the brutal killing of President Samuel Doe and later prominent as a political figure, has died at 72. Johnson was involved in Liberia's civil wars, resulting in significant casualties. Despite his involvement in war crimes, he became an influential senator.

Prince Johnson, the infamous former Liberian warlord known for his role in the brutal murder of ex-President Samuel Doe, has died at age 72. Johnson transitioned from a warlord to a political figure, serving as a senator and influencing key presidential elections in Liberia.

Throughout Liberia's devastating civil wars from 1989 to 2003, over 200,000 lives were lost and more than a million were displaced. Johnson's notoriety rose due to a notorious 1990 video showing the torture and execution of Doe, a moment he later expressed regret for.

Despite being among those recommended for war crimes prosecution, Johnson never faced trial. Instead, he entered politics, assuming a senatorial role in Nimba county in 2006. His political influence extended to supporting presidential candidates, including former presidents Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and George Weah.

(With inputs from agencies.)