Liberian president-elect Boakai rallies countrymen to rebuild nation

Joseph Nyumah Boakai, president-elect of Liberia, has rallied his countrymen to put aside their political differences and join hands in rebuilding Liberia.

Boakai, a 78-year-old former vice-president, defeated the incumbent president George Manneh Weah in a presidential run-off election held earlier this month.

Boakai obtained over 50 percent of the total valid votes to be declared the winner of the election, while outgoing President Weah obtained 49 percent of the votes.

He has promised to tackle corruption in all areas of government.

In a nationwide address on Wednesday, which was broadcast on Liberia’s State Radio, Boakai said: "I call on all Liberians to join hands to exploit the full potential of a country of promise."

He noted that the people of Liberia should join in the transformation which will lift them from the many economic and social inequities and injustices they have been subjected to for many years.

He also thanked the Liberian people and said:" You have placed your trust in me to lead with demand for the change you want, and that change begins now."

He told Liberians that the country is rich with natural resources including reserves in diamonds, gold, timber and rubber, stating that the country will no longer be used as a predatory tool by and for a few at the detriment of the majority people of Liberia.

Moreover, Boakai promised to promote broader participation in government, with people in rural communities having a voice in the government's decision-making process.

He promised to lead by example and create a Liberia for all Liberians.

The Liberian president-elect praised regional compatriots from across Africa including the African Union and Economic Community of West African States for what he termed "demonstrating true solidarity".

Liberia’s progress, he said, is being undermined by the lack of sound and honest leadership, something he promised his leadership as president will offer.

The author is a freelancer for China Daily.