Liberia s new President takes office

Monrovia Jan 23 (IANS) Liberia s new President George Weah took the oath of office on Monday with a vow to bolster the weak economy and to eradicate corruption.

Weah a former international football star was sworn in at noon inside the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium near the capital city of Monrovia reports Xinhua.

"There is more hope among our allies. Relationship will grow much stronger during my tenure " Weah said in his inaugural speech.

Weah took over from Africa s first elected female president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who served a two-term tenure of 12 years.

The presidential inauguration on Monday was the country s first transition between democratically-elected leaders since 1944.

Weah who defeated the erstwhile governing party s candidate and former Vice President Joseph Boakai during the presidential run-off on December 26 vowed to prosecute corrupt officials.

He assured the international community that Liberia will be open for business at all times as the new government would create a conducive environment for huge investments.

He also pledged to invest in agriculture and infrastructure to improve the livelihood of Liberians.

At least eight African heads of state and some international soccer stars witnessed the ceremony.

--IANS
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