The current chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has expressed his congratulations and admiration for the people of Liberia and outgoing President George Weah for his gracious concession of defeat in the recently concluded Presidential election.
Speaking at the opening of the 64th Ordinary session of ECOWAS, President Tinubu praised the Republic of Liberia for successfully conducting an election that has been widely regarded as free, fair, and credible. He also commended President Weah for his exceptional leadership and how he conducted the electoral process. Tinubu emphasized that President Weah’s decision to concede defeat and extend congratulations to his opponent sets a commendable precedent for politicians in the region and beyond.
After a closely contested second-round race, former Vice President Joseph Boakai emerged as the victor, narrowly defeating Weah with 50.9% of the votes. Even before the final results were announced, Weah gracefully conceded and congratulated Boakai on his victory.
Boakai, who promised to “rescue the nation,” will be inaugurated in January 2024. Opinions among Liberians in the capital, Monrovia, are divided on Weah’s five-year term and his biggest accomplishments. Some praise him for appointing young individuals to influential positions within the country, while others criticize the performance of these appointed youths.
Liberia, a settlement for freed slaves, has faced significant challenges, including two civil wars resulting in over 200,000 deaths. The country was founded in 1822.
