During the inauguration ceremony of Liberia’s newly elected President Joseph Boakai, the 79-year-old leader faced health challenges that led to an early conclusion of his speech. Boakai, who had been speaking for approximately 30 minutes, encountered difficulties continuing his address and had to be assisted away from the podium. The ceremony was temporarily adjourned as concerns arose about his well-being.
Speculations regarding Boakai’s health suggested the possibility of heat exhaustion, given the high temperature exceeding 30°C during the event. Video footage captured a person fanning papers near Boakai’s face before he was escorted away from the podium.
Despite the health episode, Boakai had already been sworn in as Liberia’s oldest-ever president during the ceremony held at the Capitol Building in Monrovia, the seat of the parliament. His victory in a run-off election against outgoing President George Weah marked a significant political shift.
Health concerns had been a major point of discussion during the election campaign, with Boakai addressing them by stating that he was in good health and emphasizing that age should be viewed as a blessing for the country.
Before the interruption, Boakai emphasized the need for unity, stating, “Elections are over, partisanship must give way to the forward march of Liberia.” He expressed his commitment to restoring dignity in public service and upholding the rule of law in the country.
Boakai previously served as vice-president in Nobel Peace Prize-winner Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s government until 2018. Despite his health incident, the new president is expected to steer Liberia through this new chapter following his narrow victory over Weah in the run-off election in November. Boakai’s leadership will be closely watched as he takes the helm of the nation.
