In a turn of events, the opposition Unity Party has taken an early lead in the much-anticipated Liberia presidential runoff election, setting the stage for a potentially historic outcome.
Preliminary results from polling stations across the nation indicate a significant shift in voter sentiment.
As the votes continue to be tallied, Joseph Nyumah Boakai , from Unity Party, has emerged as the frontrunner, leading by 193,041 votes constituting 50.70% while incumbent president George Manneh Weah of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) is behind with 187,615 votes. 49.29%
So far, 1,315 out of 5,890 Polling Places have been reported across the country.
The race had been closely contested, with high stakes for the future of Liberia, but the opposition’s strong showing in the early stages of the count has injected an air of excitement into the electoral process.
Observers on the ground have noted a palpable sense of anticipation among voters, many of whom had expressed dissatisfaction with the incumbent government.
The opposition’s campaign, focused on rescuing the country from economic hardship including anti-corruption measures, and social justice, appears to have resonated with a significant portion of the electorate.
Both parties claim early victory
Ahead of the official announcement by the NEC, both parties have been claiming victory as the social media continues to be flooded with excitements.
The National Elections Commission (NEC) has until next weekend to announce final result of the presidential runoff.
No incumbent president has lost in Liberia since 1869 and with the first round of voting ending almost level with 43.83% and 43.44% respectively for Weah and Boakai, the opposition Liberia will set new record if incumbent President George Weah is defeated.
About 19 candidates were challenging incumbent President George Weah in the initial round of voting that took place on 10th October 2023. Of the 20 candidates, Boakai and Weah obtained the highest votes but could not reach 50% plus one vote as required by the Liberian constitution.
The election, deemed crucial for the country’s political landscape, has seen both candidates engage in spirited campaigns, addressing critical issues such as job creation, education, and healthcare.
The opposition’s message of change and reform seems to have struck a chord with voters who are eager for a new direction in the West African state that suffer a civil 20 years ago.
However, it is essential to note that these are early results, and the situation may evolve as more votes are counted. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has urged the public to remain patient and assured them of a transparent and fair counting process.
International observers, including representatives from the United Nations and the African Union, are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
As the nation awaits the final results, the atmosphere remains charged with anticipation, and citizens are hopeful that the election will pave the way for positive change and a brighter future for Liberia.
