By Bill W. Cooper
President-elect Joseph Boakai has expressed his unwavering commitment to leading Liberia towards a brighter future, assuring Liberians that he will not falter in his responsibility to serve the country and its citizens.Recognizing the weight of expectations placed upon his shoulders, Boakai further outlined his vision for Liberia’s future, emphasizing the pressing issues that his administration will prioritize.
Key amongst those priorities will be ensuring social and economic development, strengthening the healthcare system, promoting education, tackling corruption, and fostering national unity.
He spoke Wednesday, December 27, 2023, following his and his Vice president-elect, Jeremiah Koung’s certification by the National Elections Commission (NEC) at the NEC headquarters in Monrovia.
President-elect Joseph N. Boakai receives certificate
Boakai won the country’s Presidency against incumbent President George Weah by a slight margin during the just ended November 14, 2023 Presidential run-off, after both candidates failed to win during the first round on October 10, 2023.
Addressing the hopes and aspirations of Liberians from all walks of life, Boakai also stressed the importance of a robust fight against corruption, coupled with building a vibrant economy, healthcare system, among others.
According to him, corruption as a longstanding challenge in Liberia, will be decisively addressed under his leadership, ensuring that outgoing and incoming officials will account for the country’s resources managed and soon to manage.
Vice President-elect Jeremiah Koung receives certificate
He further affirmed his commitment to creating a transparent and accountable government, taking firm steps to combat corruption at all levels for the next six years of his administration.
The President-elect further asserted that eradicating corruption is essential for attracting foreign investment, fostering economic growth, and rebuilding public trust in the political system.
He emphasized the need for inclusive policies that promote job creation, attract foreign investment, and uplift marginalized communities, with a focus on sustainable economic growth, aimed to improve living standards and reduce poverty across the nation.
Meanwhile, Boakai also emphasized the need for national unity and reconciliation, recognizing that the strength of Liberia lies in its diversity, and vowed to pursue the pathway of peace and development after his inauguration.
The President-elect noted, “Over the next few weeks, and during my inauguration, my vice president and I will set up a roadmap for progress and development. We will fully articulate the pathway to peace and development and progress of our country.”
According to him, Liberians did not only vote, but also protected their votes, acknowledging the reward of collective endurance, and assured to promote inclusivity and respect for all citizens, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or social background.
By fostering a united and harmonious society, Boakai said he also aims to harness the immense potential of Liberians, working together towards a shared vision of peace and prosperity across the country.
He maintained, “Because such victory will be meaningless if Liberians cannot benefit from the dividends of democracy, and it should be felt in every city, town, and village in Liberia, and reverberate in all the regions and the world.”
Boakai then commended President George Weah for conceding early defeat even when the final result from the NEC had not been released, and added, “Therefore, I call upon all Liberians to join us in rebuilding this country.”
President-elect Boakai’s assurance comes at a pivotal moment for the country, as it seeks to overcome numerous challenges and build upon the progress made in recent years.
With a long and distinguished career in politics, including serving as Liberia’s Vice president for over a decade, Boakai brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the nation’s needs.
Furthermore, Boakai’s commitment to social and economic development is also rooted in his belief that every Liberian should have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive, as his assertion further received a rousing applause from those in attendance.
