Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-29 02:51:00
Ex-president George Manneh Weah’s return to Liberia on February 27, 2024, was met with a low-key reception, indicating a decline in his once-strong popularity, especially among Liberian youth. Accompanied by only a few loyalists and without the visible presence of key executives from his former ruling Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Weah’s arrival marked a significant shift in public sentiment towards him.
Formerly known for drawing massive crowds of enthusiastic supporters dressed in red during his return from foreign trips, Weah’s latest homecoming saw a subdued gathering of individuals in ordinary attire. This contrasted sharply with the jubilant celebrations that used to accompany his arrivals in the past.
Weah, along with his wife, former First Lady Clar Weah, had left Liberia for France after the inauguration of President Joseph N. Boakai to accept a prestigious peace award. His departure was attended by several former government officials, including former Justice Minister Frank Musah Dean and former Commerce Minister Mawine Diggs, among others. However, his return in 2024 saw a dwindling turnout at the Roberts International Airport, a clear indication of his fading popularity.
The former president, who had conceded defeat to Boakai after the 2023 runoff election, stated that he had returned to engage in party work and critique the Boakai Government. However, internal strife within the CDC became apparent following the party’s loss in the elections. CDC party Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr. resigned on the day of Weah’s return, citing challenges faced during the former president’s administration.
Disputes between Weah and Morlu had been ongoing throughout Weah’s six-year tenure as president. In his resignation letter, Morlu criticized Weah’s appointments as “underachievers” that would undermine his administration. The resignation came as a shock to many Liberians, as Morlu had held onto his position despite numerous disputes with the former president.
Questions now linger about the sustained legacy of Weah’s presidency and the future of the CDC in Liberia’s evolving political landscape. As the first African former footballer to become a head of state, Weah’s political journey has taken a significant turn with the waning of his once-celebrated popularity.
Before his election in 2017, Weah had served as Senator for Montserrado County and enjoyed a successful 18-year professional football career. Despite his achievements, the current shift in public sentiment signals a challenging chapter in his political career. As Liberia navigates through this period of change, the future of Weah and the CDC remains uncertain.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
