MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary (LBTS) and the April 22 Memorial Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the provision of two lots of land as a burial site for former President, William R. Tolbert and his cabinet members.
According to the agreement, the land will be provided by the Seminary as a final resting place for the late Liberian Leader and others executed on April 22, 1980.
LBTS Board Chair Dee-Maxwell Kemayah said:” The MoU is not merely a document, but a testament to our collective desire for genuine reconciliation and healing in the country.”
Ambassador Kemayah noted that the April 12 and 22, 1980 events serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity in the face of diversity and adversity.
He also reaffirmed the Board’s unreserved commitment to the content and process of the MoU in its entirety.
Ambassador Kemayah assured the Group that the Board stands ready to support the implementation of the document, ensuring that the principles of dignity, respect, and remembrance are upheld throughout their shared journey.
At the same time, the LBTS Board Chair wants the government to engage citizens meaningfully, irrespective of social, political, religious, and ethnic backgrounds.
Ambassador Kemayah said:” It is important for the government to also ensure authentic reconciliation, rebuild public trust, and institute measures to address the deep scars left by past and present injustices.”
The former Liberian Foreign Minister made the statement on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, during the signing ceremony of the MoU between the LBTS and the April 22 Memorial Group.
Ambassador Kemayah also expressed hope that the spirit of unity, purpose, and unreserved practical commitment to the Constitution of Liberia and the rule of law will guide the nation, the government, and the people.
The Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary Board Chair then called for a holistic commitment to fostering a culture of remembrance, respect, and national healing.
Meanwhile, the April 22 Memorial Group has lauded the LBTS for the signing of the MoU.
The Group comprises families of the former officials killed during the April 22, 1980 event.
Two members of the Group, Elfrieda Stewart-Tamba and Willye Tolbert-King said:” The actualization is yet another historic milestone in their forty-five years struggle for the just and deserving memorializing of their fallen fathers.
Madam Tamba disclosed that the Group has already secured the eight poles on which the former officials were executed.
The April 22 Memorial Group also thanked President Joseph Boakai for helping to raise the national consciousness from the onset of his administration.
By: Frederick Teegwiah, Jr.