In his first public address since his narrow victory at the polls, Liberia‘s newly-elected president, Joseph Boakai, has called for unity amongst the Liberian citizens. The 78-year-old veteran in Liberian politics won a close race with 50.64% of the vote, contrasting with 49.36% won by his opponent, George Weah; the former football international star and incumbent president.
“Following the completion of the elections, it’s vital that we unite as a people for the good of our country,” Mr Boakai declared at a press conference. Urging the citizens to leave behind tribal, territorial, religious, or any political party affiliations, Boakai said, “”It’s high time we all join hands in this journey to salvage our nation.”
Mr Weah, who ascended to power in 2017, graciously acknowledged the victory of Mr Boakai, commending the peaceful transition of power. The fair concession of power has been praised amidst a backdrop of a mostly non-violent voting process.
“Ultimately, the entire nation has won. The strides of our democracy over the last four days serve as a testament to the progress we have made as a country. Such a victory will be a legacy we carry forward, echoed in our posterity,” stated the newly-elected leader, Boakai.
Owing to Liberia’s turbulent history marked by periods of civil war and the devastating Ebola epidemic, the peaceful progress of the recent elections was one of the primary points of concern. Mr Boakai’s adherence to a lawful transition also bears significance in the current political climate of West Africa, which in recent times, has seen a spate of military coups in countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Niger.
Mr. Boakai’s electoral promises include further infrastructural development in Liberia, especially focusing on the south-east region, which has been lamentably overlooked in the past. Capitalising on his anti-corruption campaign, he vowed to prioritise combating corruption after swearing into his presidency.
Furthermore, in his address, Mr Boakai declared his commitment to execute “radical” reforms in the security and justice systems, reassuring the populace of his dedication to uphold the rule of law.
In a tragic turn of events, the celebrations following his victory were marred by a car accident that killed at least three people on Monday evening. The cause of the accident that saw a car run into a crowd of celebrating supporters remains unknown. Extending his condolences to the victims, Mr. Boakai’s words echoed the sorrow at the unexpected tragedy following the electoral events.
The forthcoming weeks will stretch out with anticipation as President Boakai begins the task of leading Liberia into a new era of stability, unity and development. A well-respected figure of the political sphere, President Boakai has the nation’s expectations on his shoulders as he translates his campaign promises into action for Liberia’s progress.
