At the age of 78, Joseph Boakai is the new president of Liberia and the third elected president of the country.

Former Vice President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf took revenge on outgoing President George Weah, who defeated her in 2018. Presenting himself as someone who has overcome his humble beginnings, Boakai tried to create a more powerful image after gaining the infamous name of Sleepy Joe for his tendency to sleep in public events.

Opponents see his age as a handicap and say he is out of touch with young people in a country where 60% of the population is under 25. But his supporters point to his age and undiminished opportunity, insisting that he alone will be able to restore confidence in the industry and fight corruption.

Boakai promised to invest in infrastructure and alleviate the extreme poverty that many Liberians still suffer from. A father of four, the former vice president enjoys the support of older voters who appreciate the stability his party brought after the civil war between 1989 and 2003.

Others are worried that his legal battle after the 2018 election will distract from his message of trust and progress in a country with a history of elections. The United States congratulated Liberian President-elect Joseph Boakai on his victory and President Weah's acceptance.

Outgoing President Weah graciously acknowledged the outcome of Friday's close election before announcing the final government, signaling a peaceful handover in a region that has seen a spate of armed conflict in recent years. not recently in recent years.