In a critical presidential election set for Tuesday, 19 candidates are taking the stage in Liberia, each seeking to replace incumbent President George Weah, who is preparing to contest for a second term.
Weah, a former international football legend, commanded a remarkable victory in 2017 by securing over 61% of votes during the second round. This marked a significant change in the political landscape of Liberia, a country striving to heal from the scars of civil war and disease. Over the past decade, 57-year-old Weah has devoted considerable effort to establishing political credibility by serving three years in the Senate, in part leveraging his popular status as a celebrated sports personality.
Currently, Weah is campaigning rigorously to persuade Liberians of his enduring promise to elevate their living standards.
Longtime state servant, Joseph Boakai, is taking a final shot for presidency after his defeat in the 2017 elections. At the age of 78, Boakai comes with a wealth of experience, having served as vice president to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf from 2006 to 2018. Furthermore, his tenure as agriculture minister under President Samuel Doe’s government enhances his stature.
Although a notable figure from Liberia’s indigenous population, Boakai, similar to George Weah, has faced criticism from his rivals who have cheekily suggested it might be time for “Sleepy Joe” to retire. Distancing himself from the American-Liberian elite through his modest beginnings and unimposing demeanor, Boakai has continually referred to himself as an honest and hardworking citizen. Throughout his extensive career, Boakai has been a vocal critic of the Weah administration, citing numerous allegations of corruption.
His campaign focuses on infrastructure development, investment in agriculture, and promoting tourism and a conservative fiscal approach to restore Liberia’s image. Backed by the Unity Party, one of Liberia’s leading political groups, and his recent alliance with Senator Prince Johnson, Boahkai is certainly a contender to watch.
In contrast, entrepreneur Alexander Cummings offers an alternative narrative. At age 66, Cummings brings to the table a wealth of experience from a successful career in business. He is admired by many for his managerial acumen and extensive network, as well as his commitment to job creation. Augustine Koffer, a 34-year-old electrician at a rally in Monrovia, stated “Cummings is the best candidate. He has the qualifications and connections to create jobs.”
Cummings’s high-ranking position at Coca Cola enabled him to amass a fortune, consequently financing various development projects within Liberia. Despite finishing fifth place with 7.2 percent of votes in 2017, this time around, Cummings is partnering with Charlyne Brumskine, the daughter of a one-time political giant Charles Brumskine. Cummings’ considerable financial backing and strong international image could however hinder his appeal amongst the populace due to perceptions of elitism and his predominantly foreign career.
Human rights lawyer Tiawan Gongloe also joins the race. Known for his passionate advocacy for war crimes prosecution, 67-year-old Gongloe extends an alternative approach to Liberian politics. With his maiden run for the presidency, Gongloe is no stranger to the political scene. Having served as the prosecutor general and later the labour minister under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, he declares corruption his prime adversary.
Gongloe, a native of Nimba, pledges his commitment to improving the lives of Liberia’s poorest and importantly, expanding access to education. Choosing a broom as his symbol, he vows to tidy up Liberia’s governance and bring to justice those responsible for the atrocities of the civil war from 1989-2003.
As election day looms, Liberia is spoiled for choice, with a selection of candidates each offering distinct visions for the future. The stakes are indeed high as the country grapples with the task of choosing the candidate best suited to navigate Liberia’s path to prosperity.
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