Liberia’s football superstar president George Weah runs for re-election

In Liberia, citizens exercised their democratic right on Tuesday, voting on whether to grant football legend George Weah a second term as president. Despite the political promises of peace, recent clashes between supporters of different parties have rekindled fears of violence. Weah’s re-election campaign faced disruption, marked by clashes between supporters, prompting police intervention. The nation, still recovering from devastating civil wars between 1989 and 2003, aspires for tranquility amidst political transition.

Weah, 57, campaigned on the platform of “One round victory,” emphasizing the importance of preserving peace for national development. However, critics argue that his tenure failed to fulfill promises related to job creation and education. The election, the first since the United Nations concluded its peacekeeping mission in Liberia in 2018, has drawn international attention. Observers from the European Union, African Union, ECOWAS, and the United States are monitoring the process closely.

Former vice president Joseph Boakai, who lost to Weah six years ago, emerged as a frontrunner. He vowed to enhance Liberia’s image, improve infrastructure, and uplift the lives of the impoverished. While corruption remains a concern, many citizens, like George Mobo in Monrovia’s West Point slum, prioritize education, peace, and job opportunities over political integrity. Weah’s iconic status as a football legend has bolstered his popularity among the youth, constituting over 60 percent of the population.

In this democratic pursuit, Liberia seeks not just a leader but a path toward lasting peace, development, and prosperity. The election results, expected within 15 days, will shape Liberia’s future.