In a significant development for Liberia, President George Weah has gracefully conceded defeat in the tightly contested election to opposition leader Joseph Boakai. Boakai, a former vice president who lost to Weah in the 2017 election, secured 50.9% of the vote, while Weah garnered 49.1%, according to the country’s elections commission.
This concession comes after a race that marks a stark turnaround from the 2017 election when global soccer legend Weah triumphed with 62% of the vote. The presidency, marred by allegations of graft, has faced criticism for perceived lack of progress in addressing poverty, unemployment, food insecurity, and inadequate electricity supply.
In a radio address to the nation, Weah urged the public to accept the election results, stating, “I spoke with President-elect Joseph Boakai to congratulate him on his victory. I urge you to follow my example and accept the results of the elections.” This move ensures a smooth transition of power in Liberia, a nation that has experienced historical challenges, including two civil wars and the 2013-16 Ebola epidemic.
Boakai’s victory not only marks Liberia’s second democratic transfer of power in over seven decades but also stands out in the West and Central Africa region, where military coups and contested election results have eroded faith in democratic processes.
Supporters of Boakai celebrated in the capital, Monrovia, dancing, shouting, and honking car horns as the near-final results were announced. Boakai, a career politician, emphasized a message of peace and reconciliation, recognizing the challenges the nation faces in recovering from its tumultuous past.
Liberians, hopeful for change, expressed their optimism for Boakai’s leadership, citing a desire for principles and positive transformations. The new leader inherits the responsibility of addressing the aftermath of civil wars and the recent Ebola epidemic, as well as fulfilling promises to alleviate poverty and enhance the country’s infrastructure.
