President George Manneh Weah has conceded defeat in the just concluded Liberian presidential election, acknowledging the insurmountable lead of Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai as indicated by preliminary results.
Expressing respect for the democratic process, President Weah confirmed that he had personally spoken to President-elect Boakai to offer his congratulations and pledge cooperation for the advancement of Liberia.
He congratulated President-elect Boakai, his supporters, and the campaign team, expressing hopes for a successful presidency that benefits all Liberians under Boakai’s leadership.
President Weah emphasized that the true victories of the election were the Liberian people, commending the peaceful and orderly exercise of their constitutional right to vote as a demonstration of commitment to democratic values that unite the nation.
Reflecting on his leadership during the elections, Weah highlighted the commitment to fairness, transparency, and credibility in the electoral process, crediting the National Elections Commission for their commendable efforts.
Acknowledging the divisions revealed by the close election results, the President stressed the importance of vigilance against division and the necessity to foster unity as Liberia transitions to the new administration.
He underscored the paramount need for national unity and urged the citizens to find common ground.
Addressing his supporters, he said:
”To the members of the Mighty Coalition for Democratic Change, I understand that this is not the outcome we desired.
”I urge you to follow my example and accept the results of the elections.
”Tonight, the Coalition for Democratic Change has lost the election, but Liberia has won. This is a time for graciousness in defeat, a time to place our country above party and patriotism above personal interest. I remain your President until the handover of power, and I will continue to work for the good of Liberia.
”Let us heal the divisions caused by the campaign and come together as One Nation and One United People.”
