The political landscape of Liberia is once again buzzing with speculation surrounding the potential return of former President George Weah to power. A recent prophecy by Nigerian Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has declared Weah as the “incoming President of Liberia” in the 2029 elections. This declaration has ignited hope among Weah’s supporters and rekindled discussions about his political future. Despite peacefully conceding defeat to Joseph Nyuma Boakai in the 2023 elections, Weah has expressed his desire to address Liberia’s challenges and alleviate the hardships faced by its citizens under the current administration.
Weah’s decision to concede defeat in the previous election stemmed from his recognition of internal divisions within his party and a commitment to preventing further violence. He acknowledged that disunity played a significant role in his loss and emphasized his unwillingness to be a “sacrificial lamb” for the sake of clinging to power. This peaceful transition of power was lauded by many and solidified Weah’s image as a statesman who prioritized the nation’s stability over personal ambition.
However, the recent prophecy has reignited Weah’s political aspirations and galvanized his supporters, who eagerly anticipate his potential return in 2029. The prophecy, delivered during the commissioning of a new auditorium for Primate Ayodele’s church in Lagos, Nigeria, has added a mystical element to the political discourse. The event, attended by prominent figures including former Edo State Deputy Governor Phillip Shaibu and Nigeria Football Federation President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, gained unexpected attention due to the Primate’s pronouncement regarding Weah’s political destiny.
This isn’t the first time Weah has sought spiritual guidance from a Nigerian preacher. Prior to his successful 2017 presidential bid, he was accompanied by the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson to the late Prophet T.B. Joshua for prayers. This historical precedent lends weight to the current prophecy in the eyes of many Liberians, further fueling the anticipation surrounding Weah’s political comeback.
The prophecy has resonated deeply with Weah’s loyal base, who express unwavering confidence in his leadership and eagerly await his return. Sekou Kalasco Damaro, a former aide to Weah, voiced the sentiment shared by many supporters, stating that a Boakai victory in 2029 would be devastating. He firmly believes that Boakai’s presidency will be limited to a single term, citing the enduring popularity and public affection for Weah. This sentiment is echoed by other supporters, who believe that Weah’s connection with the people remains strong and that he is the right leader to address the nation’s current challenges.
The prophecy, combined with Weah’s expressed desire to return to power and the unwavering support of his base, creates a compelling narrative for a potential political resurgence. While the 2029 elections are still years away, the prophecy has injected a new dynamic into Liberian politics, prompting speculation and anticipation among citizens and political observers alike. The coming years will undoubtedly be filled with political maneuvering and strategizing as various factions position themselves for the upcoming electoral contest. The prophecy serves as a powerful symbol of hope for Weah’s supporters and a potential catalyst for his political comeback. Whether the prophecy comes to fruition remains to be seen, but it has undeniably set the stage for a captivating political drama in the years leading up to the 2029 elections. Only time will tell if Weah’s destiny aligns with the Primate’s prediction and he returns to the presidency to fulfill his vision for Liberia.