Liberia is gearing up for the inauguration of Joseph Boakai as its president on Monday, marking his triumph over former football star George Weah in the recent election.
Boakai, at 79, secured a narrow victory with 50.64% of the votes, ushering in a six-year term. The swearing-in ceremony will take place in Monrovia’s parliament at 10:00 am (1000 GMT), attended by various foreign leaders and diplomatic representatives.
Boakai boasts a political career spanning four decades, previously serving as vice-president from 2006 to 2018 under Liberia’s first woman president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
Despite a defeat by Weah in the 2017 election, Boakai’s return to the presidency is marked by high expectations from the Liberian population.
The West African country, which witnessed a peaceful November poll, faces enduring challenges, including corruption, widespread poverty, and a fragile justice system stemming from years of civil war and an Ebola outbreak.
During his campaign, Boakai aligned himself with local figures, including former warlord Prince Johnson, who supported Weah in 2017.
Johnson, notorious for a video depicting him drinking while his men tortured former president Samuel Doe, is now under US sanctions.
Boakai has nominated Jeremiah Koung, a close associate of Johnson, as his vice-president.
Liberians are hopeful that Boakai, given his extensive political experience, will address critical issues such as job creation, economic improvement, institutional strengthening, and anti-corruption measures.
Larry Nyanquoi, a former local official, emphasized Boakai’s reputation for leading a straightforward life and not engaging in corruption.
Boakai’s challenges include delivering on campaign promises, especially regarding stable electricity and water supply, as well as enhancing infrastructure for increased investment.
The outgoing government’s failure to uphold the rule of law, establish a war crimes court, and address suspicious deaths of government auditors adds to the urgency for change.
With a history of leaders making unfulfilled promises, Boakai faces heightened expectations to combat corruption, improve economic conditions, and differentiate his administration.
Analyst Abdulla Kiatamba stressed the need for tangible actions, considering past disappointments.
As Boakai prepares to assume the presidency, there is anticipation for him to address the demands of those who supported his campaign, navigate internal ambitions within his circle, and implement measures to lower the prices of essential commodities like gasoline and rice.
