LIBERIA’S President George Weah on Friday officially conceded election defeat to opposition leader Joseph Boakai after a tight race. Weah’s concession ends a presidency marred by graft allegations, ensuring a smooth transition of power in Liberia.
Boakai, a former vice president, led with 50.9 percent of the vote over Weah’s 49.1 percent, marking a stark turnaround from 2017. Weah, a global soccer legend, called for acceptance of the election results: ‘A few moments ago, 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.’
Weah’s concession paves the way for Liberia’s second democratic transfer of power in over seven decades. Boakai’s supporters celebrated the near-final results, with the opposition leader expressing a message of peace and reconciliation: ‘We have a job ahead of us to do, and I’m excited that the citizens have given us approval. First and foremost, we want to have a message of peace and reconciliation.’
Addressing the nation with a mix of emotions, Weah, representing the Coalition for Democratic Change, acknowledged the outcome of the November 14, 2023 run-off elections. In a statement marked by humility, the president highlighted the insurmountable lead held by Boakai, saying: ‘I stand before you tonight with a heavy heart, but with the utmost respect for the democratic process that defines our nation. The results announced tonight, though not final, indicate that Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai is in a lead that is insurmountable.’
Acknowledging Boakai’s victory and the unity demonstrated by his supporters, Weah conveyed heartfelt wishes for a successful presidency: ‘May his presidency be marked by success for all Liberians, and may our nation prosper under his leadership.’
Highlighting the essence of democratic principles, the president emphasised the significance of the Liberian people’s role in the election process: ‘Tonight, as we acknowledge the results, let us also recognise that the true winners of these elections are the people of Liberia. Through your peaceful and orderly exercise of your constitutional right to vote, you have once again demonstrated your commitment to the democratic principles that bind us together as a nation.’
Weah urged unity and patriotism: ‘This is a time for graciousness in defeat, a time to place our country above party, and patriotism above personal interest. Let us heal the divisions caused by the campaign and come together as One Nation and One United People.’
Boakai, a softly spoken career politician, emerged neck-and-neck with Weah in the first round of voting in October, necessitating Tuesday’s run-off. Liberia, grappling with the aftermath of civil wars and the 2013-16 Ebola epidemic, now looks toward a new leadership focused on addressing pressing issues like poverty and infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, congratulatory messages have begun to pour into the president-elect’s office.
In her congratulations to Boakai, former president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said, ‘Joe congratulations, may God guide you as you lead the Nation.’
Citizens burst into celebration on Friday night as the outgoing president conceded defeat.
Those who congratulated Boakai said the incoming president had vision determination, focus and faith to move the country to another level of development.
