By Kemo Cham
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has expressed optimism for stronger ties with neighbor, Liberia following conclusion of presidential elections in that country.
President Bio, according to a statement from the presidency, spoke with President-elect Joseph Boakai in a telephone conversation on Tuesday, during which he congratulated him on his victory and expressed desire for closer cooperation between the two countries.
“As neighbours and friends, Sierra Leone looks forward to strengthening the existing bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” Bio said, according to the post shared on X, formerly known as twitter. He noted that together the two countries would “continue to work towards enhancing regional stability, economic growth, and the overall well-being of our citizens.”
Mr Boakai was declared winner of the November 14 run-off on Monday by the National Electoral Commission of Liberia after beating incumbent President George Weah.
Mr Weah conceded defeat prior to the official declaration of the final results. That move has attracted worldwide commendations.
Bio is the latest president to have praised his fellow African leader.
The Sierra Leonean leader in his post also heaped praises on the outgoing Liberian leader for his “statesmanlike acceptance of the election result and commitment towards peace, stability and the advancement of democracy in Liberia, West Africa and Africa at large.”
Mr Boakai is expected to take office in January, as per Liberia’s laws on transition.
Weah on Monday announced the formation of a transition committee he co-chairs alongside the president-elect. He was also scheduled to chair a cabinet meeting today (Wednesday, 22 November) to discuss the transition plan.
