Liberia is set to hold a run-off election between Vice President Joseph Boakai and former footballer George Weah, marking the country's first democratic transition since 1944. The election follows a seven-week delay due to legal challenges by Boakai's Unity Party against the electoral commission. The run-off comes after neither candidate secured the required majority in the first round. The election is significant for Liberia's democratic progress, with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf stepping down after 12 years. The economy, affected by low commodity prices and a depreciating currency, remains a critical issue for the candidates. Weah, popular among the youth, faces criticism for vague promises, while Boakai is challenged by his association with the current administration's perceived shortcomings.

Liberia is preparing for its presidential and House of Representatives elections on October 10, the first since 2003 without UN peacekeepers. Key candidates include ex-warlord Prince Johnson, footballer George Weah, and businessmen Alexander Cummings and Benoni Urey. The international community is concerned about potential electoral violence as Liberian security forces take over election security. The UN, African Union, and ECOWAS have urged for peaceful elections.

Hurbain Souomi, an 11-year-old Ivorian child, returns home after six years in a Liberian refugee camp, separated from his family due to violence following the 2010 presidential election in Ivory Coast. The Red Cross has facilitated the reunion of 300 children with their families since 2011. The Souomi children, including Hurbain's brothers Thierry and Oscar, are welcomed back to their village by their grandfather, Lah Keuhoua Justin. The article highlights the emotional toll on both the children and their foster families in Liberia, as well as the efforts of the Red Cross in reuniting families.

In Monrovia, Liberia, young men like Emmanuel Howard and Joseph Yarpkawolo work as human billboards, painted head-to-toe to advertise for clients ranging from government agencies to private individuals. This unique form of street advertising, popularized in the early 1990s, has become a vital source of income for many, especially in a country with high unemployment rates. Emmanuel Ben, founder of Emmanuel Creation, has capitalized on this niche market, employing 35 workers and serving clients like DHL, Total, and the Liberia Revenue Agency. Despite the challenges of standing for hours in the heat, the body painters find pride and financial stability in their work, drawing significant public attention and even going viral online.

Liberia is preparing for a presidential election with a diverse array of candidates, including a football superstar, a former warlord, and a soft drinks millionaire. The election aims to find a successor to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa's first elected female leader. Key issues include tackling corruption, economic development, and maintaining peace. Notable candidates include George Weah, Joseph Boakai, Mills Jones, Charles Brumskine, MacDella Cooper, and Alexander Cummings. The economy and corruption are central election issues, with candidates proposing various reforms to address these challenges.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf steps down as Liberia prepares for elections on October 10, marking the first vote without UN peacekeepers since 2003. Key candidates include ex-warlord Prince Johnson, footballer George Weah, and businessmen Alexander Cummings and Benoni Urey. The international community emphasizes the importance of peaceful elections, while local security forces assure protection for candidates. The election is seen as a significant milestone in Liberia's post-conflict transition.

Liberian President George Weah faces criticism for alleged attempts to intimidate the media, with concerns raised by the Committee to Protect Journalists and the Press Union of Liberia. Defamation suits against the newspaper Front Page Africa and the departure of BBC correspondent Jonathan Paye-Layleh highlight the tense environment for journalists. Weah has attempted to reassure the media of his commitment to press freedom, but fears of reprisals and economic challenges persist.

Liberian President George Weah faces criticism for his extended absence from the country, attending international events and watching his son play football in Qatar. Critics, including opposition figures, accuse him of neglecting his presidential duties and misusing public funds, while some citizens defend his actions. The controversy arises amid economic challenges and preparations for the 2023 elections, with Weah seeking re-election despite accusations of failing to fulfill his promises.

Liberians are facing a severe rice shortage, with long queues forming to purchase the staple food amid rising prices and supply-chain disruptions exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. The price of rice has nearly doubled over six months, and the government, along with the UN, attributes the shortage to delayed shipments. The World Bank reports that over a fifth of Liberia's population lives on less than $2.15 per day. The UN World Food Programme confirms the shortage is due to delays in rice consignments and is impacted by the crisis in Ukraine. The Liberian commerce ministry has urged calm and discouraged panic-buying, promising that more supplies are en route and that the current stock will last until the next shipment arrives. Liberia, still recovering from civil wars and the Ebola crisis, faces high inflation and cash shortages, ranking low on the UN's Human Development Index, with a presidential election approaching in October 2023.

Joshua Blahyi, formerly known as General Butt Naked, notorious for his brutal actions during Liberia's civil wars, now dedicates his life to rehabilitating ex-child soldiers. Blahyi, who once led fighters and committed atrocities, has become an evangelical preacher and established a compound to help former child soldiers reintegrate into society. Despite his efforts, calls for a war-crimes court in Liberia are growing, with Blahyi himself advocating for accountability to ensure lasting peace. The article highlights the ongoing impact of the civil wars and the challenges of rehabilitation and reconciliation in Liberia.

Witnesses have testified in Liberia's first war-crimes trial against former rebel Gibril Massaquoi, alleging rape, ritual murder, and other atrocities during the civil war. Massaquoi, a senior commander of the Revolutionary United Front, was arrested in Finland and is being tried by a Finnish court that has temporarily relocated to Monrovia. Witnesses recounted horrific acts, including drinking a victim's blood and burning people alive. Massaquoi denies the charges, and his defense has questioned the reliability of witness testimonies. The trial will continue in Liberia before moving to Sierra Leone.

Gibril Massaquoi, a Sierra Leonean living in Finland, goes on trial for alleged war crimes during Liberia's civil war. The trial, a first of its kind, will partly take place in Liberia to hear from witnesses. Massaquoi faces charges of murder, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, with prosecutors seeking a life sentence. The case is significant as it may set a precedent for international accountability, with few convictions for the Liberian conflict to date. Massaquoi denies the charges, claiming he was involved in peace negotiations at the time.

Gibril Massaquoi, a Sierra Leonean residing in Finland, is on trial for alleged war crimes during Liberia's civil war, including murder, aggravated war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The trial, which began in Finland, will also take place in Liberia and Sierra Leone to hear from witnesses and visit crime sites. Massaquoi, known as 'Angel Gabriel,' denies the charges, claiming he was involved in peace negotiations at the time. Prosecutors seek a life sentence for atrocities committed between 1999 and 2003. The trial is seen as a significant step for international justice, with few convictions for the Liberian civil war crimes to date.

Liberians are set to vote in a referendum on reducing presidential terms and lifting a ban on dual nationality. President George Weah supports the changes, arguing they benefit all Liberians, but faces criticism from opposition figures who fear he may use the reforms to extend his stay in power. The referendum also includes mid-term senatorial elections and is seen as a measure of Weah's support amid ongoing economic challenges. The opposition urges a boycott, citing a lack of clarity on the referendum's implications. The dual nationality issue is contentious, with some seeing it as an economic opportunity while others fear it could increase the influence of wealthy diaspora members.

Liberian doctors, led by Jerry Brown, are leveraging their experience from the Ebola crisis to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. Despite the country's fragile healthcare system and economic challenges, authorities have reactivated Ebola-era protocols and facilities. President George Weah has declared a state of emergency, emphasizing the need for public compliance with health measures. While the initial response has been bolstered by past experiences, concerns remain about equipment shortages and public adherence to restrictions. The situation is precarious, with rising cases and fears of underreported fatalities.

Liberian doctors, led by Jerry Brown, are applying their experience from the Ebola crisis to the coronavirus pandemic. Despite the healthcare system's fragility and economic challenges, there is cautious optimism about handling the outbreak. Liberia has reactivated Ebola-era protocols and facilities, but faces obstacles such as insufficient medical equipment and public compliance with health restrictions. The country's economy is still recovering from civil wars and Ebola, with many living in poverty. President George Weah has declared a state of emergency and locked down Monrovia to combat the virus, which has seen 101 cases and eight fatalities so far.

Liberia is experiencing severe fuel shortages due to inaccurate fuel-reserve figures and an undredged port in Monrovia, causing long queues at petrol stations and economic downturns. The shortage has led to increased fuel prices, reduced consumer spending, and operational challenges for businesses. President George Weah faces mounting pressure to address the crisis, which exacerbates existing economic difficulties from past civil wars and the Ebola outbreak. The government plans to dredge the port to allow larger tankers to dock, aiming to alleviate the fuel scarcity.

Liberia is experiencing significant economic challenges under President George Weah's leadership, with rampant inflation and public discontent growing. Despite initial hopes, many Liberians are struggling with reduced incomes and rising prices. Opposition protests have increased, criticizing Weah's economic management and failure to establish a war-crimes court. While some still support Weah, believing he can turn things around, the overall sentiment is one of frustration and disappointment.

Liberia is experiencing significant economic challenges under President George Weah, with rampant inflation and widespread dissatisfaction among citizens. Despite initial hopes, many feel Weah has failed to deliver on his promises of economic improvement and job creation. The country continues to grapple with the aftermath of civil wars and the Ebola crisis, further complicating economic recovery. Protests and opposition criticism are growing, although some still support Weah, hoping he can turn the situation around.

A devastating fire at a Koranic school in Paynesville, Liberia, resulted in the deaths of at least 26 pupils and one teacher, with the victims being of Guinean origin. The cause of the fire is under investigation, with possibilities ranging from an electrical fault to arson. Guinea's Ambassador to Liberia confirmed the victims' Guinean descent, while Guinea's President Alpha Conde expressed condolences. Liberian President George Weah visited the site, promising a thorough inquiry. The tragedy highlights the vulnerability of communities to deadly fires, often linked to malfunctioning generators.

In Monrovia, Liberia, protesters clashed with police during a rally against economic mismanagement and corruption under President George Weah. The demonstration, organized by the Council of Patriots, highlighted grievances over inflation and governance. Tensions escalated with the announcement of opposition candidate Darius Dillon's lead in a senatorial by-election. The protests also addressed financial irregularities at the Central Bank of Liberia and called for improved human rights and anti-corruption measures. President Weah, facing criticism, emphasized his administration's focus on economic recovery and infrastructure development.

Liberian President George Weah is facing protests in Monrovia over inflation and corruption, challenging his leadership on issues he campaigned on. The Council of Patriots, a coalition of various societal groups, is leading the protests with expectations of a large turnout and potential for violence or disruption. The UN's special envoy expressed concerns over the Liberian state's capacity to manage the protests. Economic hardships are highlighted by citizens' testimonies on the rising cost of living. The Central Bank of Liberia is under scrutiny for its handling of the currency, with past and present managers being criticized following scandals involving currency mismanagement. Weah has acknowledged the hardships and prioritized health, education, and roads, while also noting potential IMF aid that would require reforms and austerity.

Liberia faces a dilemma in balancing shark conservation with the economic needs of its fishing communities. Declining shark populations, driven by high demand in Asia, threaten marine ecosystems and commercial fish stocks. The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, supported by the Environmental Justice Foundation, is implementing a monitoring program to track shark and ray populations. Local fishermen express mixed feelings, citing illegal trawling and overfishing as major issues. The success of conservation efforts hinges on the cooperation of these fishermen, with potential legislative action being considered to protect these species.

Liberia faces a dilemma in balancing shark conservation with the economic needs of its fishing communities. Local fishermen, like George Toe, recall better days when shark catches were abundant, but now struggle with declining numbers. The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, supported by the Environmental Justice Foundation, has initiated a three-year monitoring program to track shark and ray populations. Despite the conservation efforts, local fishermen express doubts, attributing declining fish stocks to illegal trawlers rather than overfishing of sharks. The program aims to educate fishermen on the ecological importance of sharks, with potential legal measures if voluntary compliance fails.

Liberian President George Weah, who succeeded Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, is seeking international aid to fulfill his promises of reducing poverty and improving living standards. Weah has cut his own salary, reduced rice prices, and secured 27 million euros from the European Commission. Liberia has also taken out loans totaling nearly $1 billion for infrastructure projects. Critics are concerned about the sustainability of these loans. The government aims to build 759 kilometers of paved roads to improve connectivity, especially during the rainy season.

President George Weah of Liberia, facing high expectations to alleviate poverty, is seeking international aid and loans to fund development projects. Despite cutting his own salary and reducing the price of rice, Weah's administration is under pressure to deliver on promises. The European Commission has pledged 27 million euros in aid, and significant loans have been secured for infrastructure projects. However, concerns about the sustainability of these loans have been raised. Key initiatives include student grants, public street lighting, and reducing import taxes to combat inflation.

Liberian President George Weah faces accusations of attempting to muzzle the media as a newspaper confronts a $1.8-million defamation case and a BBC journalist flees the country fearing reprisals. The Committee to Protect Journalists and the UN have expressed concerns over the use of libel lawsuits to intimidate journalists. Weah has reassured journalists of '200 percent freedom of expression' under his government, despite the Press Union of Liberia's alarm over increased threats and harassment of journalists.

As UN peacekeepers exit Liberia after 14 years, the country faces challenges in addressing its war crimes legacy despite progress in security reforms. The UN mission, UNMIL, significantly improved security and supported the peaceful presidential election. However, unresolved issues from the 1989-2003 conflict, including the lack of war crimes prosecutions, persist. President George Weah has not committed to addressing these crimes, and experts emphasize the need for justice and continued UN involvement. Regional bodies like ECOWAS and the G5 Sahel are increasingly influential in West African security, but the UN's support remains crucial.

As UN peacekeepers exit Liberia after 14 years, the country faces challenges in addressing its war crimes legacy despite progress in security reforms. The UN mission, UNMIL, significantly improved security and supported the peaceful presidential election. However, issues of exclusion and corruption persist, with no prosecutions for war crimes. President George Weah has not committed to addressing these crimes, while experts call for a war crimes court. Regional bodies like ECOWAS and G5 Sahel are playing increasing roles in West African security, with continued UN support deemed essential.

George Weah, a former football star and the first African to win FIFA's World Player of the Year and the Ballon d'Or, has been elected president of Liberia after defeating Vice President Joseph Boakai. Weah, who is popular among the youth and the poor, has focused on education, job creation, and infrastructure in his political platform. Despite criticism for his vague political platform and being a high school dropout, many voters see Weah's rise from the slums to success as inspirational. Critics also question his choice of vice-presidential candidate, Jewel Howard-Taylor, and suggest he may be manipulated by outgoing President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Weah's son, Timothy, recently signed with Paris Saint-Germain, continuing the family's football legacy.

George Weah, a former soccer star, won the Liberian presidential election with 61.5% of the vote, defeating Vice President Joseph Boakai. This marks Liberia's first democratic transition in over 70 years. Weah is set to succeed Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on January 22. The election was praised internationally for its peaceful conduct, despite initial delays due to contested first-round results. Weah's victory is seen as a significant step for Liberia, which is recovering from past civil conflicts and the Ebola epidemic.

Liberia conducted a peaceful presidential run-off election between former footballer George Weah and Vice-President Joseph Boakai. The election, which follows legal challenges from Boakai's party, is expected to result in the country's first democratic transition since 1944. Observers from the Liberia Elections Observation Network and the European Union praised the organization of the vote. The candidates have urged calm during the counting process, and the National Elections Commission has taken steps to ensure transparency. The winner will inherit an economy struggling with low commodity prices and a depreciating currency, and will face challenges such as poverty and corruption.

Liberia is undergoing a presidential run-off election to choose a successor to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The election marks the country's first democratic transition since 1944. The process has been observed by various international bodies, including the European Union and the National Democratic Institute. Key candidates include George Weah and Joseph Boakai, each with their own support bases and criticisms. The election has been peaceful, though concerns about voter turnout due to the holiday season have been raised. The outcome will be crucial for Liberia's future, especially in terms of economic challenges and political stability.

Vote counting is underway in Liberia following a peaceful run-off election between George Weah and Joseph Boakai, marking the country's first democratic transition since 1944. The election, delayed due to legal challenges, was praised for its organization and calmness by various observers, including the European Union and the National Democratic Institute. Weah, a former footballer, is popular among the youth but criticized for his Senate performance, while Boakai is seen as a continuity candidate with a clean image but criticized for not addressing poverty. The election's outcome is crucial for Liberia's future, with challenges like a struggling economy and past electoral fraud claims looming large.

Liberia is poised for its first democratic transition of power from elected President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to a successor chosen in a recent vote, which has been praised for its smooth process. The second round of voting saw football legend and Senator George Weah face off against outgoing Vice President Joseph Boakai, with local media suggesting Weah is in the lead based on preliminary results. The country, which has not experienced a democratic transition since 1944, is still recovering from a brutal 14-year civil war and the Ebola epidemic. The final election results are awaited, and both candidates have urged their supporters to refrain from violence. The National Electoral Commission, under Jerome Korkoya, is the only body authorized to announce official results.

Vote counting is underway in Liberia following a peaceful run-off election between George Weah and Joseph Boakai. The election marks the first democratic transition since 1944, with results expected in a few days. The ballot was delayed due to legal challenges by Boakai's Unity Party. Observers, including the Liberia Elections Observation Network and the European Union, praised the improved organization. Former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan emphasized the international importance of the transition. Weah, a former footballer, and Boakai, the current Vice-President, represent change and continuity, respectively. The election's outcome will impact Liberia's economy, which struggles with low commodity prices and a depreciating currency. The presence of Charles Taylor's ex-wife, Jewel Howard-Taylor, as Weah's vice-presidential pick, adds controversy. Candidates are urged to maintain calm to avoid electoral violence.

Liberia is holding a run-off presidential election between former footballer George Weah and Vice-President Joseph Boakai, following a delayed vote due to legal challenges. The election marks the first democratic transition since 1944, as President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf steps down. Weah, known for his European football career, and Boakai, a long-serving public servant, both claim victory. The election is crucial for Liberia's economy, struggling with low commodity prices and a depreciating currency. Both candidates have been vague on policies, focusing on education and infrastructure. Weah's endorsements and popularity among youth may boost his chances, while Boakai is seen as a continuity candidate. The election has been peaceful, despite concerns of violence.

Vote counting for the second round of Liberia's presidential election between former football star George Weah and Vice President Joseph Boakai began after a calm election day. The election, initially scheduled for November 7, was postponed due to organizational issues. Observers noted improved voting procedures, and the results are expected soon. The election marks a significant transition as neither candidate belongs to the Americo-Liberian elite. George Weah, favored to win, received strong support, while Joseph Boakai remained confident. The election follows Liberia's recovery from civil war and the Ebola epidemic.

Liberians are set to vote in a delayed presidential election between former footballer George Weah and Vice President Joseph Boakai. The election follows legal challenges and is seen as a crucial moment for the country's democratic transition. Both candidates have expressed confidence in their chances, with Weah enjoying significant youth support and Boakai seen as a continuity candidate. The election is taking place amid economic challenges and concerns about voter turnout due to the timing around Christmas.

Liberia is set to vote in a delayed run-off election to choose a successor to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The election, postponed due to legal complaints, will see George Weah and Joseph Boakai competing after neither secured a majority in the first round. The election process has been praised for its peacefulness, despite allegations of irregularities. Weah, endorsed by influential figures like Prince Johnson, is popular among the youth, while Boakai faces criticism for the government's past performance. The new president will inherit an economy struggling with low commodity prices and a depreciating currency.

Liberia is set to conduct a presidential run-off vote between Vice President Joseph Boakai and former footballer George Weah, marking the first democratic transition since 1944. The run-off was delayed by seven weeks due to legal challenges by Boakai's Unity Party, alleging electoral fraud, which were dismissed by the Supreme Court. The election will decide the successor to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who is stepping down after 12 years. Weah, who leads the Coalition for Democratic Change, is popular among the youth and has been endorsed by Prince Johnson. The candidates are campaigning on issues such as corruption and economic challenges, with Liberia's economy struggling due to low commodity prices and a depreciating currency.

George Weah, former football star, is rallying support ahead of the December 26 presidential run-off in Liberia against Vice-President Joseph Boakai. Weah's supporters, gathered in Monrovia, express strong belief in his ability to bring positive change, including job creation and better education. Despite legal challenges from Boakai, Weah remains confident, bolstered by his past victories and public appearances with influential figures. The article highlights the enthusiasm and optimism among Weah's supporters as they prepare for the upcoming vote.

Liberia's economy is suffering due to an unresolved presidential election crisis, with businesses struggling as customers stay home and the exchange rate climbs. Market traders and small business owners express frustration over the economic stagnation and fear of potential violence. The National Elections Commission rejected fraud allegations from Vice-President Joseph Boakai and opposition leader Charles Brumskine, leading to an appeal to the Supreme Court. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and other stakeholders urge a swift resolution to stabilize the economy and ensure a smooth transition of power.

Liberia's ruling Unity Party has filed a formal complaint against the National Elections Commission over alleged irregularities and fraud in the October 10 presidential election. The complaint, supported by the Liberty Party and All Liberian Party, accuses outgoing President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of interfering with the electoral process. The Unity Party's candidate, Vice-President Joseph Boakai, will face George Weah in a runoff vote on November 7. International observers had deemed the election largely credible, and the international community has called for a smooth democratic transition.

Liberians are voting to elect a successor to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, with key candidates including George Weah, Joseph Boakai, Charles Brumskine, and Alexander Cummings. The election is seen as a crucial test for Liberia's democracy, with a peaceful transition being significant for the region. The campaign has focused on improving living standards and reducing dependency on foreign aid. The election is the first major test for Liberia's police and army since taking over national security from the UN peacekeeping mission.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa's first female leader, is stepping down after 12 years as Liberia's president, leaving a legacy of peace but unfulfilled aspirations for women's political representation. Despite respect for her achievements, critics argue that the glass ceiling remains intact, with women underrepresented in the Senate and as candidates in the upcoming elections. Issues like teenage pregnancy, sexual violence, and literacy among women persist. MacDella Cooper, the only female presidential candidate, and others seek broader prosperity. Feminists Robtel Neajai Pailey and Korto Reeves Williams criticize Sirleaf's lack of support for women in politics, while Senator Jewel Howard-Taylor discusses the challenges women face in gaining political traction.

Liberia's presidential campaign has begun with 20 candidates, including a former warlord, a footballer, and a fashion model, as President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf steps down. Key candidates include Senator Prince Johnson, footballer George Weah, and business executives Alexander Cummings and Benoni Urey. The election, set for October 10, will be the first without UN peacekeepers since the civil war ended in 2003. The international community is concerned about potential electoral violence as Liberian security forces take over election security.