Liberia's new president overcomes heat exhaustion

Seventy-nine-year-old Joseph Boakai assumed the presidency of Liberia, succeeding former football star George Weah.

The event, held in Monrovia, witnessed a brief disruption as President Boakai battled heat exhaustion during his address. Although he had to momentarily sit down, his party’s secretary general, Amos Tweh, assured that the president’s health was stable.

Despite Boakai’s age and health being subjects of debate in Liberia, he emerged victorious in November’s run-off poll, defeating Weah with 50.64% of the vote. During his inaugural speech, President Boakai emphasized the urgent need to rebuild infrastructure, enhance basic services, and ensure equal opportunities for all Liberians.

The ceremony drew international attention, with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo and US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield in attendance. Boakai, a political veteran with 40 years of experience, served as vice-president from 2006 to 2018 under Liberia’s first elected female head of state, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Boakai’s victory marked a peaceful transition in a region often marred by coups. However, Liberia faces challenges like corruption, poverty, and a weak justice system due to civil wars and an Ebola outbreak.

The new president, backed by former warlord Prince Johnson, pledged to address these issues, promising job creation, economic improvement, institutional strengthening, and an anti-corruption drive. Boakai faces the difficult task of reconciling various factions that supported his campaign and navigating the complexities of Liberian politics.

As expectations soar, analysts assert that Boakai must deliver on promises to crack down on corruption and boost economic conditions. His call for unity and commitment to extending development across the country, particularly through infrastructure projects in the southeast, will be closely monitored.

While Liberia anticipates a new era under President Boakai’s leadership, the challenges ahead include resolving past issues of impunity, establishing a war crimes court, and ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition.

Boakai’s success will be measured not only in his ability to fulfill campaign pledges but also in his capacity to unite a nation eager for progress.