The remains of Chief James Pah Sayee, former Chairman of the River Gee Traditional Council and former Deputy Speaker of the Liberia Traditional Council, arrived in Fish-Town last Tuesday, drawing an outpouring of grief, reflection, and tributes from citizens and traditional leaders across the county.
Hundreds of mourners, including local government officials, traditional elders, and family members, gathered in the streets of the county capital to receive the late chief. Known as a respected custodian of culture and a symbol of unity, Chief Sayee was remembered as one of River Gee’s most influential traditional leaders.
A native of Potupo Jayproken in River Gee County, Chief Sayee served for several years as a prominent voice within Liberia’s traditional leadership structure. As Chairman of the River Gee Traditional Council, he was credited with promoting peace, unity, and social harmony across southeastern River Gee, strengthening cooperation between traditional authorities and residents while fostering reconciliation in times of conflict.
As former Deputy Speaker of the Liberia Traditional Council, he contributed to national discussions on traditional governance, community administration, and the integration of customary leadership into Liberia’s democratic framework.
He also led the River Gee chapter of the Liberia National Council of Chiefs and Elders, where he earned respect for his integrity and commitment to service. Residents described his leadership style as centered on dialogue, respect, and community empowerment, recalling his efforts to resolve disputes peacefully and advocate for rural development.
Chief Sayee rose to national prominence during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, particularly during her second term.
He represented Liberia’s traditional leadership in an international delegation to the United States, a role that highlighted his position as a bridge between customary governance and modern state institutions.
His death was confirmed by family members on April 22, 2026, at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia.
The announcement triggered tributes from across Liberia and among the River Gee diaspora, known as “Geepos.”
Concerns about his health emerged seven weeks earlier when Marcus S. T. Solkroe, a prominent son of River Gee and former Chief of Office Staff for electoral district 2, publicly appealed for medical support in a March 4, 2026 Facebook post.
Solkroe disclosed that the chief was critically ill and undergoing treatment at JFK. Despite efforts to secure further care, Chief Sayee succumbed to his illness.
The arrival of his remains in Fish-Town marks the beginning of funeral ceremonies and memorial activities expected to draw dignitaries, elders, traditional leaders, and citizens from across Liberia.
Family members and local authorities expressed profound sorrow, stating that Liberia had lost one of its most respected traditional statesmen.
Residents said leaders like Chief Sayee remain central to Liberia’s governance system, working alongside elected officials to uphold cultural traditions, maintain social order, and advance grassroots development.
Funeral rites and traditional ceremonies are expected to continue in the coming days as River Gee County prepares to bid farewell to one of its distinguished sons.