Joseph Boakai, Liberia's new president, has made a solemn promise to confront corruption in his country as he officially assumed office on Monday, following his electoral triumph over former football star George Weah.
Addressing the audience at his inauguration, Boakai highlighted the prevailing challenges facing the nation, and expressed a determination to embark on a path of recovery.
"We see hard times, we see dysfunctioning... we see corruption in high and low places. And [it's] in these and similar conditions that we have come to the rescue," Boakai said as cited by the media.
During the swearing-in ceremony held in parliament, distinguished foreign dignitaries, such as Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, were in attendance to witness the investiture of the new president.
Boakai, who will lead Africa's oldest republic for the next six years, brings with him four decades of political experience. He previously served as vice-president from 2006 to 2018 under Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa's first democratically elected female head of state, before her losing to Weah in the 2017 election.
Accoeding to reports, liberians anticipate Boakai's focus on job creation, economic improvement, institutional strengthening, and the fulfillment of his commitment to combat corruption, a key pledge during his campaign. Additionally, the populace looks to the new leader to ensure a reliable supply of electricity and water, as well as enhancing the road infrastructure to attract investment.
Following his electoral victory, Boakai urged unity in rebuilding Liberia and vowed to extend development initiatives throughout the whole country, particularly by prioritizing the construction of roads in the southeast.
He also assured a seamless and peaceful transition, emphasizing that the fight against corruption would be a top priority.
Notably, Weah received praise for promptly conceding defeat, demonstrating a commitment to the democratic process.