Nobel Peace Prize laureate Leymah Gbowee has publicly rated former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s administration as a “diamond,” sharply criticizing the leadership of former President George Weah and current President Joseph Boakai.
Gbowee, an internationally recognized peace activist and a critical voice during Sirleaf’s presidency, made the remarks in a recent statement evaluating the performance of three Liberian leaders. She praised Sirleaf ~ Africa’s first elected female president ~ for her efforts during her two terms in office from 2006 to 2017, contrasting her tenure with what she described as disappointing leadership under her successors.
According to Gbowee, President Sirleaf’s administration, though not without flaws, marked a period of substantial progress for Liberia in areas such as governance, international diplomacy, and women’s empowerment. “We have two other governments to measure her government with, and it makes her government to look like a diamond,” Gbowee said, noting that Sirleaf’s leadership laid the groundwork for Liberia’s democratic consolidation.
Her statement criticized the administration of former football star turned president George Weah, who succeeded Sirleaf in 2018 and served until early 2024.
Despite being only months into his tenure, President Joseph Boakai has also come under scrutiny from Gbowee. The activist questioned the direction and pace of Boakai’s administration, urging the current government to prioritize effective governance and the welfare of ordinary Liberians.
President Boakai, who took office in January 2024, campaigned on promises of reform and unity following a contentious election. His administration is still in its formative phase, but Gbowee’s early criticism adds pressure on the veteran politician to deliver meaningful change.
Leymah Gbowee, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 alongside Sirleaf, remains an influential voice in Liberia’s civil society and governance discourse. Her comments are likely to stir political debate and reflect the high expectations many Liberians continue to have for their leaders.
