Liberia's football legend president seeks re-election amidst voter concern

Ex-football star and Liberia’s incumbent president, George Weah, is gearing up for a second term as the nation heads to the polls on October 10. The elections are marked by voters’ primary concerns, including peace and development.

In Buchanan, a town located 150 kilometers east of Monrovia, citizens gathered under a tin roof at a petrol station to discuss their priorities for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections. These discussions revolved around improved healthcare, education, infrastructure, employment opportunities, and the cost of living. However, the memory of Liberia’s turbulent past, scarred by successive civil wars from 1989 to 2003, loomed large.

Peace remains the paramount desire for many Liberians. The specter of recent clashes between supporters of the two major political parties, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals, has raised concerns about a potential return to violence. Citizens are urging the youth to accept the election results, regardless of the victor, in an effort to prevent a resurgence of the tragic conflict that plagued the nation for 14 years.

Authorities have pledged to apprehend troublemakers, and the electoral commission is working to assure citizens of a fair and credible electoral process. International observers from the European Union, African Union, ECOWAS, and the United States are present to monitor the proceedings, particularly in light of recent coup activities in the region.

George Weah faces stiff competition, with 19 other candidates vying for the presidency. If no candidate secures an absolute majority in the first round, a runoff will take place in early November. Additionally, voters will select the 73 members of the House of Representatives and the 15 members of the Senate. Initial election results are expected within days of the vote.

Former Vice President Joseph Boakai, a frontrunner for the presidency, is focused on restoring Liberia’s image, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the lives of the country’s poorest citizens. Boakai, who lost to Weah in the 2017 runoff, has formed alliances to bolster his chances, including one with former warlord and senator Prince Johnson.

While corruption remains a critical issue, especially with the United States sanctioning five senior Liberian officials for alleged corruption, some citizens like George Mobo prioritize education, peace, and job creation. They see President Weah as a figure who has made strides in these areas, including building roads and making education more accessible.

George Weah’s rise to power in 2018 was fueled by his iconic status as the first and only African to win the Ballon d’Or in 1995. Growing up in Monrovia’s slums, he remains popular among Liberia’s youth, who constitute over 60 percent of the population. The streets are adorned with posters featuring Weah and his running mate, Jewel Howard-Taylor, the ex-wife of former president and warlord Charles Taylor. Weah’s party, the Congress for Democratic Change, has been conducting lively street processions to bolster his candidacy.

Weah’s main rivals include former Coca-Cola executive Alexander Cummings and human rights lawyer Tiawan Gongloe, whose performance in the election could significantly impact the runoff results.