Ex-Liberian President Warns African Leaders: Democracy at Risk When Elected Govts Become Tyrannical

Former Liberian President George Weah has cautioned African leaders against undermining democracy through political manipulation, judicial pressure and weakening of institutions. During his keynote address at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt, Weah emphasized that democracy cannot be reduced to mere elections, as its survival relies on strong institutions, especially an independent judiciary and a fearless legal profession.

Weah argued that the real danger to democracy stems not only from military coups or rejected election results but also from elected governments that gradually erode democratic institutions after taking office. He warned that leaders could misuse budgets, appointments, and institutions while exerting pressure on judges and legislatures until they cease functioning as checks on executive power.

Weah stressed that a "tyrant with a certificate of return remains a tyrant," urging the legal profession to ensure court decisions remain binding, regardless of political considerations.

The former Liberian leader also highlighted his own experience in Liberia, where he conceded defeat in the 2023 presidential election before final results were announced, demonstrating that political leaders must prioritize national peace and democratic stability over personal ambition. Weah challenged African countries to move beyond the "brain drain" narrative by creating systems that allow professionals working abroad to contribute their expertise to national development, advocating for a system of "brain circulation."

Weah urged the legal profession to uphold discipline, hard work, respect, perseverance, and spiritual strength, emphasizing that the true measure of a lawyer is their courage to stand up when the country needs it most and to speak out when justice requires a voice. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, opening the conference, called on the bar and bench to rise above political pressure, corruption, and other obstacles to justice, stressing that judges must remain impartial and uphold the Constitution.