31/12/2025
FROM WHERE I SIT
By Philipbert Semogai Browne ✍️
MASONIC ORDER'S GRAND MASTER, PRES. WILLIAM R. TOLBERT JR, KILLED "GBOYO" MASONIC BROTHERS OVER RITUALISTIC KILLINGS IN MARYLAND COUNTY:
President William R. Tolbert, the Grand Master of the Masonic Order in Liberia, took action against ritualistic killings during his presidency. In 1979, his government investigated and convicted seven individuals, including top government officials, involved in the ritualistic murder of Moses Tweh in Maryland County. The convicts were publicly executed, showcasing the government's stance against such crimes.
The Tolbert administration's efforts to combat ritual killings were part of broader reforms aimed at addressing social and economic imbalances. However, Tolbert's presidency was cut short in a 1980 coup led by Samuel Doe, marking a tumultuous period in Liberia's history.
Moses Tweh's case is a pivotal moment in Liberia's history regarding ritual killings. He was a popular local singer and fisherman whose mutilated body was found in 1977, sparking widespread outrage and a thorough investigation.
Tweh was abducted on June 26, 1977, and his body was discovered a week later with several body parts missing, including his eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and ge****ls. The investigation revealed that Tweh's body parts were used for ritualistic purposes, believed to grant power and wealth to those involved.
The investigation led to the arrest of 12 individuals, including high-ranking government officials who were predominantly a part of the Masonic Order in Liberia. Hon. James Daniel Anderson, a former Superintendent of Maryland County, and Allen Yancy, a member of the House of Representatives.
Francis Nyepan, an Assistant Supervisor of Schools, was also implicated, with his girlfriend Wreh Taryonnoh playing a role in the crime.
The trial was a landmark case, with seven individuals, known as the "Harper Seven," publicly hanged for Tweh's murder on February 16, 1979. The ex*****on was seen as a response to public pressure and aimed to curb ritual killings in Liberia.
The individuals convicted and executed for the ritualistic killing of Moses Tweh in Maryland County, Liberia, are known as the "Harper Seven". They were: Masonic Brother James Daniel Anderson, Superintendent of Maryland County - Masonic Brother Nathaniel Yancy, Representative for Maryland County, House of Representatives Masonic Brother, Francis Wlateh Nyepan, Assistant Supervisor of Schools Masonic Brother, Philip B. Seyton, Senior Inspector of the Ministry of Commerce, Maryland County Thomas Barclay, cook of Allen Yancy, Wreh Taryonnoh, girlfriend of Francis Nyepan and Putu Dueh.
The Moses Tweh case highlights the dark history of ritual killings in Liberia, particularly in Maryland County, where such crimes were prevalent in the 1970s. The incident led to increased awareness and efforts to combat these crimes, but challenges persist.
The ex*****on of Masonic Brothers involved in Moses Tweh's ritualistic killing under Grand Master William R. Tolbert's government actually underscores that the Masonic Order doesn't condone such crimes. Tolbert's actions demonstrate the Order's commitment to justice and the rule of law, as he prioritized investigating and punishing those responsible, regardless of their Masonic affiliation.
This case highlights the Masonic principles of integrity, justice, and respect for human life. The Order's values emphasize personal growth, brotherly love, and adherence to the law, making it clear that ritualistic killings have no place in Masonic teachings. Tolbert's stance against such crimes reflects the Order's commitment to upholding moral and spiritual values.
This perception that Masonic Brothers are ritualistic murderers stem from misconceptions about Freemasonry. The involvement of any Masonic Brother or individual in crimes doesn't represent the Order's teachings especially that crimes are not transferable, Freemasonry emphasizes integrity, charity, and respect for life.
Just like any organization, individuals may deviate from principles, but the Order itself condemns such acts. Masonic rituals are symbolic and focus on personal growth, brotherhood, and moral values, not harmful practices like ritualisticmurder.
TOMORROW'S TOPIC: WAS MASONIC BROTHER, GEORGE MANNER WEAH, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA, TREATED RIGHT BY THE MASONIC ORDER IN LIBERIA ? WHY WASN'T HE GIVEN THE SEAT OF WISDOM IN THE EAST?
Philipbert S Browne