Liberian President George Weah has conceded defeat to Joseph
Boakai, his opponent in the country’s tight presidential election.
On Friday evening, the country’s National Elections
Commission (NEC) said Boakai raked in 50.89 percent of the votes, while Weah
scored 49.11 percent.
Commenting on the outcome of the election, Weah described
Boakai’s lead as insurmountable.
The Liberian leader congratulated Boakai, a former
vice-president who lost to Weah in the 2017 poll, and assured him of his
commitment to working with him for a better country.
“I stand before you
tonight with a heavy heart, but with the utmost respect for the democratic
process that has defined our nation. As your President and the leader of the
Coalition for Democratic Change, I want to address you on the outcome of the
run-off elections held on November 14, 2023,” Weah said in a statement.
“The results announced tonight, though not final, indicate
that Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai is in a lead that is insurmountable. A few
moments ago, I spoke with President-elect Joseph N. Boakai to congratulate him
on his victory and to offer my sincere commitment to working with him for the
betterment of our beloved Liberia.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to President-elect
Boakai, his supporters, and his campaign team. May his presidency be marked by
success for all Liberians, and may our nation prosper under his leadership.”
Weah acknowledged the citizens of Liberia as the “true
winners” of the election but added that the electoral process brought the “deep
division” in the country to the fore.
“However, the closeness of the results reveals a deep
division within our country. As we transition to the new Boakai administration,
we must be vigilant to the dangers of division and work together to find common
ground. Now, more than ever, unity is paramount for the love of Mama Liberia,”
he said.
Weah lauded the NEC for a transparent process and thanked
foreign stakeholders for committing to the process.
A run-off between both former allies was triggered after
neither candidate got more than 50 percent of the votes in last month’s first
round.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
election observation mission to Liberia said the polls were “successful and
peaceful”.
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This is a good idea from Liberians how can a footballer who is only conversant with pitch govern the whole country well. At least he gained experience on what governance is all about. Every trade has basic skills
ReplyDeleteHow I wish Nigeria politicians can emulate this feat.
ReplyDelete