The second round of the presidential election in Liberia is fast approaching, and the quest for alliances to win is already being felt. George Weah and Joseph Boakai, the two candidates in the running, are actively seeking the support of small parties in order to strengthen their campaign and hope to win. However, the situation is still uncertain, and it is difficult to predict what the outcome of this election will be.
Joseph Boakai, the former vice president, took the lead in reaching out to smaller parties, calling on them to form a grand opposition coalition to “save and restore Liberia.” He thus wants to create a solid union in order to face his opponent George Weah. On the other hand, the outgoing president has remained more discreet about his intentions, but he is also courting small parties in the shadows.
But important voices remain to be taken into account for this second round. Edward Appleton, who surprisingly came third in the first round, could play the role of referee in this election. However, its lack of notoriety risks harming its ability to consolidate its base, according to the opinion of writer Dounard Bondo.
It is therefore the other contenders, such as Lusinee Kamara, Alexander Cummings and Tiawan Gongloe, who could play a key role in this election. Lusinee Kamara, leader of Liberia’s coalition party and representing a loyal Muslim constituency, is seen as a possible “kingmaker” in this election. Tiawan Gongloe, known for his integrity, could also play an important role and may refuse to support George Weah due to his opposition to the current political system. Alexander Cummings, a businessman who denounced irregularities during the first round of the election, could also follow this path.
As the Electoral Commission is finalizing the final results of the election, the next few days will be crucial for the candidates, as the alliances and support obtained could tip the scales in favor of one or the other. The Liberian population is impatiently awaiting the outcome of this presidential election which will mark the future of the country.