These are the tough challenges Liberia’s new president faces

This signifies a shift in generations, as 79-year-old Joseph Boakai assumes the presidency from Liberia’s youngest-ever elected leader, George Weah. Weah, the former international football star, ascended to the presidency at the age of 51, defeating Boakai in elections six years ago but experiencing defeat this time by just over 20,000 votes.

Boakai’s victory was expected due to public dissatisfaction with the Weah administration’s corruption and extravagance, including ostentatious displays of wealth. Boakai faced criticism over the years, with opponents and some Liberians on social media mocking him for allegedly dozing off at public meetings – a claim his aides deny, attributing it to his small eyes and drooping eyelids.

To enhance his image, Boakai frequently wore sunglasses during this campaign, although concerns persist regarding his health and fitness, especially given that his term will conclude when he turns 85. Boakai dismissed these concerns before the election, emphasizing the wisdom and commitment he brings to the country as an older statesman.

Boakai, who served as vice-president in Nobel Peace Prize-winner Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s government until 2018, contested the presidency under the United Party (UP) banner. Analysts highlights Boakai’s trustworthiness in the eyes of voters, considering him an elder statesman who can bring stability after the controversies of the Weah administration. Boakai already appointed experienced individuals to ministerial positions, contrasting with the Weah administration’s perceived lack of experience.

A key figure in the new government is Jeremiah Koung, who, from a street hawker, climbed the ranks to become a businessman and lawmaker. Now, at the age of 45, he was sworn in as the vice-president. Boakai’s running mate played a crucial role in softening debates surrounding Boakai’s age, drawing many Liberians towards the Unity Party alliance.

Describing Koung as “young and energetic,” some analysts suggest that Koung harbours presidential ambitions and will likely seek a significant role in the government. Originating from the Movement for Reconstruction and Democracy (MRD) party, led by Pastor and lawmaker Prince Johnson, a former rebel commander, Koung’s rise adds a dynamic element to Liberian politics.

Johnson, who became a pastor and politician after the end of the Liberian Civil War in 2003, holds significant influence as a “kingmaker” in Liberian politics, particularly in Nimba, the second most populous county and a crucial battleground in elections. In the 2017 election, Johnson endorsed George Weah, contributing to his victory. However, in the recent election, Johnson backed Boakai, citing unfulfilled promises by Weah. The specifics of the promises made to secure Johnson’s endorsement are yet unknown, but with Koung’s ascent to the vice-presidency, he emerges as a popular figure, especially among young people in Nimba, bridging the generational gap in Liberian politics.

Having formed an alliance with Mr. Johnson’s party, Mr. Boakai is unlikely to comply with the requests from some civil society groups to establish a war crimes court.

There is a continued demand for justice by families affected by the war, but Liberia attained peace under the agreement that there would be no prosecutions. Liberia has experienced peace, and a new generation has grown up in a democratic setting, unlike the previous generation that lived through war.

However, the major challenge for the new government is to address the country’s economic crisis. Liberia’s economy heavily relies on imports, and the central bank reportedly lacks sufficient foreign exchange to purchase goods. Impending shortages, including gasoline and imported staples like rice, lead to recurrent problems and rising prices.

Boakai needs to focus on combating drug cartels that are negatively impacting the lives of many young, unemployed Liberians. Many Liberians highlight the vulnerability of young people in Liberian society, many of whom are substance abusers and addicts. The prevalence of kush, a cheap and devastating drug that causes users to behave erratically, sometimes resulting in fatalities, is widespread.

The drug epidemic serves as a stark reminder of Liberia’s deep-rooted socio-economic issues. Analysts underline that Boakai needs to address these challenges and help young people become a better version of themselves, a task that previous leaders failed to accomplish.