Liberia welcomes its new president, Joseph Boakai, with a moving inauguration ceremony. At the age of 79, Boakai becomes the oldest president in the country’s history, and he has promised to unite and turn around Africa’s oldest republic from its economic woes.
The ceremony took place in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia, in the presence of citizens and foreign delegations. Dressed in traditional Liberian attire, Boakai delivered a speech in which he stressed the importance of unity and political energy in building a nation. He also listed his priorities, which include strengthening the rule of law, fighting corruption and renewing citizens’ hope.
However, the ceremony was abruptly interrupted when Boakai showed signs of physical distress during his speech. He was quickly led away from the podium as he tried in vain to continue his speech. A spokesperson for Boakai’s political party said his weakness was due to the heat and had nothing to do with his health.
Despite doubts over his age, Boakai dismissed the concerns, arguing that his experience and achievements would benefit the country. He won a close election against George Weah, the youngest president in Liberia’s history.
The public image of Weah, a legendary former football player turned politician, had tarnished as his first six-year term ended. Critics accused him of failing to deliver on campaign promises to fix Liberia’s ailing economy, root out corruption and ensure justice for victims of the country’s successive civil wars between 1989 and 2003.
This transition of power thus offers a glimmer of hope for Liberia, with a new president who wants to be unifying and determined to meet the challenges facing the country. It now remains to be seen whether Boakai can turn his words into concrete actions and bring about the economic and social changes Liberians are longing for.