By Sara Camara
Capitol Hill, Monrovia – Newly inducted Senator Samuel G. Kogar of Nimba County pledged his unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of Liberia and his home county during a moving address following his induction into the Liberian Senate on Thursday. The Senator, who won the April 2025 senatorial by-election to fill the vacancy left by the passing of the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson, promised to “never compromise” the needs of his constituents.
“I promise today, with every fibred of my being, that I will never compromise your interests or those of our beloved Liberia for anything,” Senator Kogar stated, his voice filled with emotion. “Nimba deserves better, and I will fight to make that a reality. I will not let you down.”
Kogar, formerly a Representative of Nimba District #5, attributed his rise to faith, perseverance, and the steadfast support of the Nimbaian people. He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve at the national level, promising to deliver on the promises he made during his campaign.
In a poignant moment, Senator Kogar paid tribute to the late Senator Prince Johnson, a towering figure in Nimba politics, referring to him as “our godfather.” He vowed to honor Johnson’s legacy while simultaneously forging a new path of inclusive development for Nimba County. “He was a man whose influence and legacy still echo across our county and country,” Kogar stated. “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.”
Outlining his vision for Nimba, Senator Kogar focused on key areas including infrastructure development, improved education, youth empowerment, and economic advancement. He emphasized a collaborative approach, stressing partnerships, legislative advocacy, and active community engagement as crucial elements for achieving these goals.
“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.”
Beyond his county-specific agenda, Senator Kogar emphasized the importance of national unity and bipartisan cooperation. While a member of the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR), he stressed his commitment to serving as a national leader, prioritizing the needs of all Liberians.
“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.”
He further pledged his support for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s national development agenda, urging his fellow senators to prioritize national interests above party affiliations. “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,” he declared.
Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence welcomed Senator Kogar to the upper house, encouraging him to embrace the Senate’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.”
Karnga-Lawrence announced that Senator Kogar will soon receive his committee assignments and will undergo an orientation by the Senate Committee on Rules, Order, and Administration to familiarize him with the legislative procedures and protocols of the Senate. The induction of Senator Kogar marks a new chapter for Nimba County, with high expectations placed upon his shoulders to deliver on his promises and contribute to the overall progress of Liberia.