Liberians are holding their breath as the National Elections Commission announced the commencement of the presidential run-off election counting today, following a tightly contested first round in October.
The current president and retired football star, George Weah, emerged as the front-runner in the initial round but fell short of the required 50% majority, necessitating a run-off.
The race remains incredibly close, with just 7,000 votes separating Weah and his opponent, former Vice-President Joseph Boakai. Both candidates secured nearly identical percentages in the first round, highlighting the intensity of the electoral battle. Weah secured 43.8% of the vote, while Boakai closely trailed with 43.4%. Eighteen other candidates also vied for the presidency in the initial round.
However, concerns over the integrity of the election process have surfaced, with nine election commission staff members arrested on allegations of ballot-tampering following the October vote. This development has raised eyebrows and fueled anxieties among the electorate, who are eagerly awaiting the final results.
The situation is further complicated by reported clashes between supporters of rival opposition parties, as tensions run high in the aftermath of the first round.
The United Nations has confirmed these clashes, underscoring the need for a peaceful resolution to avoid any potential escalation of post-election tensions.
This election marks a crucial moment for Liberia, as it is the fourth presidential election since the end of the country’s second civil war over two decades ago, which claimed the lives of more than 50,000 people.
