The Liberia Elections Commission disclosed on Thursday that opposition leader Joseph Boakai is currently holding a narrow advantage in the run-off election, securing 50.6% of the vote compared to President George Weah’s 49.4%. This update comes after the tabulation of results from approximately 87% of polling stations in the West African nation.
Following the initial round of voting in October, Boakai and Weah emerged in a tight race, but neither managed to secure the required 50% for an outright victory. Consequently, the run-off election was scheduled for November 14.
Critically viewed as a litmus test for former soccer star Weah, aged 57, this election has attracted attention due to critiques during his first term. He faced criticism from both the opposition and Liberia’s international allies for what was perceived as insufficient action against corruption.
Boakai, aged 78, who previously lost to Weah in the 2017 election, has centred his campaign on the imperative to rescue Liberia from what he perceives as mismanagement under Weah’s administration. His platform emphasises the need for reform and addressing what he terms mismanagement plaguing the nation.
