One of the beauties of democracy has just played out in West Africa. Former international football star, George Weah, has been sworn in as Liberia’s new president. The event occurred last Monday, in the country’s first transition between democratically-elected leaders since 1944.
Mr. Weah, who made history as the first footballer anywhere to become Head of state, took over from Africa’s first female leader, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who spent 12 years trying to steer the West African nation away from the trauma of civil war.
The notion that nothing succeeds like success was also quite visible as dignitaries from around the world graced the occasion in Monrovia. From Nigeria, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, flew into the country to witness the event. On hand to receive them were the Nigerian Ambassador to Liberia, Mr. James Dimka; Force Commander for the United Nations Mission in Liberia, Major-General Salihu Uba, among other officials.
Chief Obasanjo said he was proud to witness a peaceful democratic transfer of power in Liberia considering the huge sacrifices made by Nigeria for peace and stability in the country. “I am very happy over what is happening in Liberia today and I congratulate my brothers and sisters in this great country,” he said.
The Governor of Imo state of Nigeria, Rochas Okorocha, also attended the event. Former Super Eagles midfielder, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, was among the international soccer stars who flew into Monrovia in solidarity with their fellow footballer- now turned politician. Okocha ran into the warm embrace of soccer fans and government officials from other countries that fell over themselves to take photographs with the football legend.
