Liberia's newly elected president Joseph Boakai, 79, had to be helped off the stage during his first speech as the country's leader. After about 30 minutes, he found it difficult to find the words and it became clear that he was unable to continue his speech.
Boakai's team says that the incident has nothing to do with his health, but that it was due to the heat, writes Africa News. The president, who is the country's oldest in history, has repeatedly waved off criticism of age and instead emphasized his wealth of experience.
Before the speech began, Boakai managed to be sworn in as the new president, writes Reuters.
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Experts: Many challenges - tough task awaits Boakai
Liberia is facing a series of challenges and it will therefore not be an easy task for the new president Joseph Boakai, experts tell Africa News.
Among other things, Boakai will have to review several important agreements concluded by previous governments and think about which international friends the country wants. Widespread corruption in politics is another huge challenge. In addition, it is "uphill" for the country's economy, partly because the country is so dependent on imports, says analyst Zoe McCathie.
AFP writes that the country is plagued by corruption, poverty and a weak legal system. This is due, among other things, to prolonged civil wars and Ebola outbreaks, two disasters that in turn create wounds in the country.
- Expectations for Boakai's presidency are high, says former politician Larry Nyanquoi.
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