Liberia: Joseph Boakai Wins Presidency

The people of Liberia have appointed Joseph Boakai as their new leader, a decision that President George Weah has accepted with grace.

By Friday afternoon, 17 November, the country’s electoral commission had counted the majority of the votes cast for the run-off, and the 78-year-old politician had secured a narrow win with 50.9% – compared to Weah’s 49.1% – of the total vote tally.

The 57-year-old former footballer conceded the defeat on a national radio station and mentioned calling Boakai shortly after the result was announced to congratulate him.

“This is a time for graciousness in defeat, a time to place our country above party, and patriotism above personal interest. I urge you to follow my example,” he said.

The peaceful moment reflected a quiet transfer of power, a rare occurrence in West and Central Africa, which has seen several military coups in the past three years.

The new head of state is expected to be sworn in by January next year.

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