MONROVIA – President George Manneh Weah has conceded defeat and congratulated opposition Unity Party candidate, Amb. Joseph N. Boakai as the winner of the 2023 presidential runoff election.
President Weah phoned Mr. Boakai following the announcement by the National Elections Commission (NEC) of provisional results on Friday. According to the NEC, Boakai led with 50.9% of the vote over President Weah’s 49.1%, with nearly all the votes counted.
After a tight race, Boakai, 78, pulled over 800,000 votes against George Weah, a former footballer and the candidate representing the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change. Both candidates had campaigned tirelessly, crisscrossing the nation and connecting with the people on various issues that were close to their hearts.
As the votes were counted across the country, it became evident that the race was incredibly close. The National Elections Commission (NEC) announced the preliminary results, revealing that Boakai had obtained 814,212 votes, which accounted for 50.89% of the total votes cast. On the other hand, Weah garnered 785,778 votes, constituting 49.11% of the votes. The margin between the two candidates was razor-thin, with just a difference of 28,434 votes.
However, there were still 24 polling places in Grand Kru, Weah’s home county, and one polling place in Nimba that had not yet reported their results. NEC said there were reports of fraud and would repolling the 25 polling places.
NEC’s pronouncement puts Boakai automatically made Boakai the winner in the runoff elections. The electoral process was conducted mostly with transparency and integrity, reflecting the nation’s commitment to democracy.
The votes from the additional 25 polling places would not significantly change the overall outcome. Boakai maintained his lead, securing his victory in the presidential runoff elections. With the final results, Boakai emerged as the winner, having garnered 814,212 votes, equaling 50.89% of the total votes cast. Weah, despite his valiant efforts, fell short with 785,778 votes, accounting for 49.11% of the votes.
As the news spread across the nation, jubilation erupted among Boakai’s supporters. They celebrated in the streets, waving flags, singing songs, and expressing their hope for a brighter future under their chosen leader.
Boakai, 78, known for his experience and steady leadership, was home receiving party fatefuls. President George Weah has not conceded defeat yet.
