By By: The People News
A Unity Party supporter has called for a public statue of former President George Manneh Weah to be erected at ELWA Junction in Paynesville, arguing that his achievements in football deserve national recognition separate from his record in office.
Speaking on Prime FM’s Prime Morning Drive on Wednesday, George P. Lobo said Weah’s status as Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner brought international pride to Liberia and should be honored in bronze. “Apart from politics, George Weah left his name in the world of football,” Lobo said. “He brought pride not just to his family, but to Liberia and to Africa. That legacy should be cemented in bronze at one of our busiest junctions for generations to see.” Lobo said ELWA Junction was chosen for its visibility and its ties to communities where Weah is widely admired.
Lobo, a supporter of the ruling Unity Party that defeated Weah’s CDC in the 2023 elections, acknowledged criticisms of Weah’s presidency from 2018 to 2024. “There is a need for Former President Weah to be given the credit and honor for his immense contributions to football,” he said. “But we must also be honest, His experience in football did not amount to a better governance system when Liberians trusted him to serve the country.” The comment has drawn mixed reactions online, with some calling it patriotic and others questioning the timing amid ongoing debates about accountability.
The proposal comes as Liberia continues to debate how to remember the Weah administration. Supporters credit him for youth engagement and sports development, while critics cite economic hardship and governance failures. “We can disagree on politics and still honor greatness in football,” Lobo said. “A statue at ELWA would tell every young Liberian that you can come from Clara Town and become the best in the world.”
Credit: This Story was first posted on KMTV
