Liberia: Weah Departs Liberia Moments after Boakai’s Inauguration
— Why the Quick Departure of Weah from Liberia?
Former President George M. Weah and his wife, former First Lady Clar Weah, departed the country shortly after the inauguration of President Joseph N. Boakai. They have traveled to France to receive a prestigious peace award.
Former President Weah was accompanied to the airport by several former government officials, including former Justice Minister Frank Musah Dean, former Commerce Minister Mawine Diggs, former City Mayor Jefferson Tamba Koijee, and former Deputy Public Works Minister Joseph P. Todd.
The timing of Weah’s departure for the peace award has become a topic of debate among the public. While Weah has a history of contributing to peace globally, opinions differ on the appropriateness of leaving the country immediately after the inauguration of the new president.
The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) announced that President George M. Weah is the recipient of this year's International Peace Prize Medal Award. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Monrovia, Liberia, in January 2024, although the specific reasons for Weah's current departure from the country are unclear.
The quick departure of Weah has sparked discussions among Liberians, with some expressing criticism towards the former president.
Nevertheless, the inauguration of President Joseph Boakai as the 26th President of Liberia marks a significant moment for the nation, which has a history of conflict and struggle.