Joseph Boakai has been inaugurated as Liberia’s president after winning the election against George Weah. Boakai, aged 79, narrowly secured victory with 50.64% of the votes. He previously served as vice president from 2006 to 2018 under Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The ceremony took place in Monrovia, attended by foreign leaders and diplomatic delegations. Liberia, a country of 5 million people, faces challenges such as corruption, poverty, and a weak justice system stemming from years of civil war.
Boakai’s campaign focused on job creation, economic improvement, institutional strengthening, and fighting corruption. Expectations are high for his presidency, and he is perceived as someone who has not engaged in corruption and has led a modest lifestyle. Liberians also anticipate improvements in electricity, water supply, and road infrastructure to attract investment. The previous government’s failure to establish a war and economic crimes court and address impunity, as well as the suspicious deaths of four auditors, have raised concerns. Boakai’s presidency aims to address these issues and bring stability and progress to Liberia.
