Away from the football field, Chelsea cult star George Weah is edging closer to fulfilling his ambitions to become President of Liberia.
While all focus is currently on the heavy Christmas football schedule, a former Chelsea star is making headlines away from the field. George Weah is in a two-horse race to become President of Liberia. The country went to the polls on Boxing Day with results expected to be announced imminently.
Weah is up against 73-year-old Joseph Boakai in what is a historic election for the people of Liberia.
"[Weah and Boakai] are vying to replace Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female head of state, who is stepping down after two terms. It will result in one democratically elected government handing power to another for the first time in more than 70 years in the West African nation. – via The Times"
While the bulk of us have enjoyed a fantastic Christmas in our comfortable free lives, citizens in Liberia are still new to such luxury. The nation has been dogged by civil war and heavy-handed rule throughout its history. After a first vote that was too close to call, Weah and Boakai are awaiting the results from the run-off.
This election has not been free of scandal either. Accusations of corruption delayed the second vote by over a month. Votes have been finally been cast and Weah will be hoping to ride his popularity as ‘Mister George’ to become Liberia’s head of state.
Early reports indicate that Weah has indeed won the run-off.
Weah’s prominence is his home country is driven by his footballing career. He played for AC Milan, Chelsea and PSG, amongst others. Although the striker’s stay at Stamford Bridge was brief (it was a loan deal that lasted under a season), he is remembered fondly in West London.
Weah’s contributions were vital to the Blues winning the 2000 FA Cup. That cup win was one of the great successes that raised Chelsea’s profile heading into the new millenium.
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The forward has been an avid activist and campaigner since retiring and is looking to further effect change in Liberia. Weah won the largest share of the vote in the initial election and will likely be confident in confirming his Presidential status once results are officially released.