In a nail-biting electoral showdown, the opposition Unity Party (UP) and the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) are locked in a tight race as votes continue to be counted, raising the stakes and tensions in a critical election that could reshape the political landscape.
As almost 80% polling stations counted across the nation, citizens eagerly awaited the results of an election marked by intense campaigning and stark policy differences.
The latest tallies put ruling party led by George Manneh Weah at 593,558 or 43.80 % and opposition leader Joseph Nyumah Boakai at 589,977 or 43.54%.
With a voter turnout of 1,436,050 the election has witnessed a passionate outpouring of political engagement from citizens across the political spectrum. Incurbent President George Manneh Weah, 57, has promised to do more if given the second chance to become president after his first term was marred with allegations of grand corruption and racketeering.
On other hand, 78-year-old opposition leader Joseph Boakai says it is now time to rescue Liberia from the hands of people he calls” corrupt leader” and rebuild the country’s economy.
Tight Race
Preliminary results indicate a tight race, with neither the opposition party nor the ruling party gaining a clear lead. The neck-and-neck contest, some analysts predict the possibility of winning in favor of Joseph Boakai who is leading in two of the vote-rich regions of Nimba and Lofa as well as Margibi and Grand Cape Mount.
Weah has so far led in southeastern region that consists of Grand Kru, River Gee, Maryland , Sinoe, Grand Gedeh and River Cess. However, the region accounts for less than 15% of total votes in Liberia.
Weah stronghold has about 269 polling stations to be announced while opposition leader Joseph Boakai has about 702 polling places in his strongholds.
In the midst of the ongoing vote count, election observers have praised the peaceful conduct of the election and the dedication of election officials who are working tirelessly to ensure the accuracy of the results.
Although the National Elections commission recently admitted to not giving any contract to all of its temporary staff but said they will be paid accordingly.
Political analysts predict that the ultimate outcome of this closely contested election could have far-reaching implications for the nation’s future, including potential shifts in policy direction and a reconfiguration of political alliances. The electorate remains on the edge of their seats as they eagerly await the final results, which will determine Liberia direction and will chart its course in the coming years.
