All eyes are on Liberia as the country awaits political uncertainties to cool ahead of the planned presidential run-off. Stakes are high in the West African country after an earlier presidential vote held in October failed to produce a presidential winner. For a country battling various challenges to its economy, the presidential elections are of great significance.
While the elections for other seats were done and completed on October 10, the presidential election is yet to be concluded. We provide you with quick facts about the 2023 Liberian elections and what to expect.
What is the political situation in Liberia?
President George Weah during a campaign. The country is in a campaign mood ahead of a presidential run-off
Unlike her other neighbors who have witnessed military coups, Liberia is one of the countries in Africa that has enjoyed relative peace in the recent past. Although the country experienced a civil war that ended in 2003 and claimed the lives of more than 250,000 citizens, its political environment has not been plagued by frequent unrest in the recent past. Its political temperature has been calm and democratic elections deemed fair in most quarters.
The country will be heading to a presidential run-off which has been scheduled for November 14. Local media in the country reports that the 2023 Liberian elections that were held in October were largely fair and did not experience any troubles. Residents are optimistic that the calm witnessed during the General Elections will be replicated in the presidential run-off.
Who are the candidates for the Liberian presidential run-off?
President George Weah is hoping to use the polls to bag another term. He is facing off with Joseph Boakai, a former Vice President who served the country in the past. Boakai was among a group of 20 contestants keen to unseat Weah. The results that were declared by the National Elections Commission indicated that all the candidates who contested did not obtain the 50% plus one vote needed to win the first round.
During the first round of the 2023 Liberian Elections, Weah garnered 43.83%. His closest opponent Boakai, of the opposition Unity Party, won 43.44% of the vote cast. Their opponents got less than 3% of the vote. Weah and Boakai face-off in 2017 and the vote is like a replica of their past content. In 2017, the two candidates fought tooth and nail in a run-off. In the end, Weah won the seat with more than 60% of the vote.
Who is George Weah?
President George Weah
In the soccer world, George Weah is one of the decorated stars who have grazed the pitch. The Liberian president is the only African player who has ever won the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. The Award is presented to the best soccer player. He transitioned to politics and won the 2017 General Elections.
His administration is riddled with controversies which include claims of corruption. Al Jazeera reports that Weah’s administration came under criticism last year after The United States imposed sanctions on three Liberian government officials over claims of corruption.
Who is his opponent Joseph Boakai?
Presidential hopeful Joseph Boakai
Joseph Boakai is an experienced politician and one of the major players in the 2023 Liberian elections. He served in the country as a vice president and is hoping to climb the leadership ladder to become the country’s leader. READ ALSO: 9 tips for investing in Africa
When is the Liberian presidential elections run-off?
General Elections are always unpredictable and it is always important to know election schedules especially if you are a visitor or an investor. The outcome of the 2023 Liberian elections is not expected to escalate into a political stalemate. However, it is important to take precautions if you are a foreigner. The presidential run-off will be conducted on November 14. The VOA Africa reports that about 2.4 million are eligible to participate in the process through voting.