Africa

Liberia Election: Joseph Boakai Defeats Incumbent George Weah, Emerges President-Elect

Published

1 year ago

Nov 18, 2023.

Eko Hot Blog reports that Liberia’s Former Vice President Joseph Boakai has emerged as the president-elect of the West African nation, defeating the incumbent President George Weah, according to the latest results from the National Elections Commission.

With 99.58% of all polling places nationwide reporting (5,865 out of 5,890), Boakai secured the lead with 814,212 votes, representing 50.89%, while President Weah closely followed with 785,778 votes, accounting for 49.11%. The margin between the two candidates is 28,434 votes, a difference of 1.78%.

The gap has been steadily increasing since the electoral body began announcing the results on November 15, just a day after the runoff election. The closely contested nature of the election mirrors the dynamics of the first round, where Weah emerged as the frontrunner by a slim margin, necessitating a runoff.

Boakai’s win, however, is historic as he becomes the second presidential candidate in the history of Liberia to return a former ruling party to power since 1878 when former President Anthony W. Gardiner did so with the True Whig Party.

Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Head of Liberia’s National Electoral Commission (NEC)

The President’s loss is also historic as he becomes the first president in Liberia’s history to fail in his reelection bid. His defeat comes just six years after he had won against Boakai in the 2017 runoff, securing a decisive win with 61.5% to 38.5%, after winning the first round with a 10% margin.

The dynamics, however, shifted in 2023, with Boakai putting up a formidable fight in the first round, securing 43.44% of the vote compared to Weah’s 43.83%. This razor-thin margin led to a runoff, as neither candidate reached the constitutional requirement of 50% plus one vote.

During his campaign, Boakai pledged to rescue Liberia from what he described as mismanagement and corruption under the Weah administration. He highlighted the need for a new direction that prioritizes good governance, economic stability, and social welfare.

In contrast, the Weah administration has vigorously defended its record, asserting a commitment to development and emphasizing achievements in community infrastructure and road construction. The government has framed these initiatives within the context of its Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD).

Meanwhile, supporters of Boakai have begun celebrating the news of his election, expressing optimism about the prospect of change and a new direction for the country.

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