Liberia’s President George Weah is facing mounting pressure from the US as he seeks re-election in October 2023. His main rival, former Vice President Joseph Boakai, has been mobilizing his supporters and allies in the US to lobby against Weah’s administration.
Boakai, who leads the opposition Unity Party, has set up a branch in Philadelphia to boost fundraising and awareness for his campaign. He has also been reaching out to influential figures in the US Congress, the State Department, and the diaspora community to highlight the alleged failures and corruption of Weah’s government.
Boakai’s US strategy aims to undermine Weah’s credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of his key international partner. The US has been a major donor and ally of Liberia since its founding by freed American slaves in 1847. The US also played a crucial role in ending Liberia’s civil war and supporting its post-conflict recovery.
Weah, a former football star who won a landslide victory in 2017, has seen his popularity decline amid economic woes, social unrest, and accusations of nepotism and mismanagement. He has also been criticised for how he handled the Covid-19 pandemic, which has claimed over 2,000 lives in the country.
Weah has dismissed Boakai’s allegations as baseless and politically motivated. He has also accused Boakai of being out of touch with the realities and aspirations of the Liberian people. He has vowed to continue his agenda of poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and national reconciliation.
The US has not officially endorsed any candidate for the upcoming elections, but it has expressed concern over some of the issues raised by Boakai and other opposition leaders. In May, the US Department of State attempted to mediate between Weah and mining giant ArcelorMittal over a dispute regarding the rail link between Liberian mining sites and the port of Buchanan. The US also urged Weah to respect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
The elections are expected to be a close and contentious race between Weah and Boakai, who have both claimed to have the support of the majority of the electorate. The outcome will have significant implications for Liberia’s stability, development, and relations with the US and other international partners.
Source: Africa Intelligence
