The newly elected Senator of Nimba County, Samuel G. Kogar, has been inducted into office, vowing to remain steadfast in protecting the interests of both Liberia and his home county.
Kogar, who secured a decisive victory in the April 2025 Nimba County senatorial by-election, made the pledge during a moving statement shortly after taking his seat in the upper house of the Legislature on Thursday. The election was held to fill the vacancy left by the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson, a powerful and controversial political figure whose influence shaped Nimba politics for decades.
"I promise today, with every fibre of my being, that I will never compromise your interests or those of our beloved Liberia for anything," Senator Kogar said emotionally, tears streaming down his face. "Nimba deserves better, and I will fight to make that a reality. I will not let you down."
Reflecting on his political journey, the former Representative of Nimba District #5 credited his ascension to faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of his constituents.
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"You entrusted me with the responsibility to represent you in the House of Representatives, and that decision set the stage for my growth in national leadership," he noted. "I remain eternally grateful and will deliver on all of my promises made during the campaign."
Kogar paid special tribute to the late Senator Prince Johnson, describing him as "our godfather," and vowed to uphold his legacy while forging a new path of inclusive development. "He was a man whose influence and legacy still echo across our county and country," Kogar said. "The people of Nimba, in your overwhelming numbers, elected me to carry the torch Sen. Johnson once held high. I do not take this lightly."
Senator Kogar outlined a broad vision for Nimba County focused on infrastructure development, improved education, youth empowerment, and economic advancement. He stressed that development would be pursued through partnerships, legislative advocacy, and community engagement.
"My presence here will be nothing short of positive," he asserted. "I am here to contribute constructively, collaborate earnestly, and represent passionately in the interest of Liberia and the people of Nimba County."
The senator also emphasized the importance of national unity and bipartisan cooperation. Though a proud member of the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR), Kogar assured his colleagues and the nation that his loyalty extends beyond party lines.
"Although I'm a proud member of the MDR, I stand here not just as a partisan politician, but as a national leader," he said. "Liberians deserve unity, not division; progress, not politics as usual."
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He further declared his intention to support President Joseph Nyuma Boakai's national development agenda, stating, "This government needs our support to deliver. As senators, we must rise above party colors and work in the supreme interest of the Liberian people."
Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence welcomed Senator Kogar on behalf of the Liberian Senate, encouraging him to embrace the chamber's tradition of collaboration and mutual respect.
"On behalf of the Senate, I want to welcome you, Sen. Kogar, to the House of Elders," Karnga-Lawrence said. "Here, we lead together by respecting the views and opinions of others, holding consultative meetings, and following a clear, defined agenda in the interest of Liberia and our respective constituencies."
She disclosed that Senator Kogar will soon receive his committee assignments and that the Senate Committee on Rules, Order, and Administration will orient him on the legislative procedures, rules, and protocols of the Upper House.
