Liberia Votes As George Weah And Joseph Boakai Face Off

Posted by: Kyeyune Andrew Jonathan in African News October 10, 2023

Liberia are preparing to vote in a highly contested presidential election as former football star George Weah, 57 seeks a second term. However, he faces a major competitor in former Deputy President Joseph Boakai, 78.

Mr Boakai has waged his campaign under the slogan “Rescue”. He argues that the West African state derailed during Mr. Weah’s first six years in office.

However though, Mr Weah is optimistic that he will bag the victory with a lot of ease. He says he has kept Liberia stable and that he has made big improvements in the education sector.

These elections will be filled with young voters born during peacetime Liberia. They will, therefore, be voting for the first time.

Two decades ago, a brutal civil war came to an end in the country and the estimated fatalities were at about 250,000 people.

A number of Liberians demanded for the formation of a war crimes court to prosecute key figures behind the conflict. They say the country’s failure to do so has brought into existence a culture of impunity.

Up until now, Mr Weah has declined to give in to the pressure saying they cannot achieve development by focusing on old crimes.

About 2.4 million people have registered to vote with polls opening at 08:00 GMT. The presidential seat has a total of 19 contestants which includes two women.

But the voters will also cast ballots for parliamentary representatives in today’s election.

The major parties have promised to observe peace during the polls despite clashes between the rival camps.

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