MONROVIA – Liberia’s President George Weah is set to depart for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), but his trip is overshadowed by a recent drug arrest at the Roberts International Airport and the ensuing controversy surrounding his Chief of Protocol. As Weah seeks a second term in the upcoming October 10th elections, the potential for protests by Liberians in New York threatens to cast a shadow over his presence at the UNGA and raise further challenges for his political aspirations.
A few days ago, law enforcement authorities at the Roberts International Airport made a significant drug seizure. The consignee of the drugs is alleged to be Nora Finda Bundoo, chief of protocol to President Weah, according to people who saw documents on the importation that came on Kenya Airways.
The news of Weah’s Chief of Protocol’s link to the contraband has sent shockwaves throughout the country, raising questions about the president’s association with individuals involved in the drug trade.
As President Weah heads to the UNGA, the timing of the drug arrest and its potential impact on his reputation and political campaign cannot be ignored. Liberians residing in New York are reportedly planning protests during his visit, aiming to draw attention to the alleged corruption and the government’s perceived failure to address the drug trade issue effectively. The protests have the potential to embarrass the Liberian leader on an international stage, as he faces scrutiny and calls for accountability from his own citizens.
Weah’s second-term bid adds another layer of complexity to the situation. With the upcoming elections on October 10th, the controversy surrounding the drug and the alleged involvement of his Chief of Protocol have the potential to influence voter sentiment and undermine his campaign efforts.
Weah will undoubtedly face challenges in managing the fallout from the drug arrest during his UNGA visit, as he strives to present a positive image of his administration and secure support for his reelection bid.
The Liberian leader’s presence at the UNGA was expected to provide an opportunity to engage with global leaders, discuss critical issues, and showcase Liberia’s progress. However, the drug arrest controversy threatens to overshadow these objectives, diverting attention towards internal challenges and potential protests against Weah’s leadership.
As President Weah departs for the UNGA, he faces a delicate balancing act. He must address the allegations surrounding his Chief of Protocol, demonstrate a commitment to combating the drug trade, and address the concerns of his fellow Liberians who plan to stage protests in New York. Successfully navigating these challenges will be crucial for Weah’s political future and his aspirations for a second term in office.
The coming weeks leading up to the elections will test President Weah’s ability to restore public trust, regain control of the drug trade situation, and address the grievances of his constituents. The eyes of both domestic and international observers will be on Liberia as the nation grapples with these issues, highlighting the critical juncture at which the country finds itself as it strives for stability, progress, and accountable leadership.
President Weah has consistently denied his government link to drug trade, blaming people who he said are peddling lies against his government.
