George Weah, Liberian President, Praised for Demonstrating Sportsmanship by Accepting Defeat

Liberian President George Weah is being praised for his sportsmanship after conceding to his opponent in the presidential race. Weah, who has been president since 2018, called Joseph Boakai to congratulate him, saving the country from potential tension. This action by Weah, a former football star, is seen as rare and a mark of statesmanship and peace by human rights advocate Hassan Bility. Weah's concession comes three days before the official results are announced, as he realized his pathway to victory was nearly impossible. The elections are the first since the departure of UN peacekeepers in 2003. Weah's concession has been widely commended, including by the regional bloc Ecowas. Analysts believe his actions have set an example for other countries in West Africa. Weah's presidency is also praised for tolerance and some infrastructural development. However, there is division among Liberians regarding his successes and failures. The president-elect, Boakai, has emphasized his focus on fighting corruption and improving agriculture, but there are high expectations in a divided nation.