Biography & Career Of Joseph Boakai

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Biography & Career Of Joseph Boakai

Joseph Nyumah Boakai (born November 30, 1944) is a prominent Liberian politician renowned for his extensive political career. Serving as the 29th vice president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018, Boakai has demonstrated his dedication to public service.

His political journey reached a significant milestone with his triumph in the 2023 presidential election, securing the position of Liberia’s president-elect. This victory reflects both Joseph Boakai‘s political prowess and the promising prospects for the country under his leadership.

Early Life & Education

Joseph Boakai, the current President of Liberia, was born on November 30, 1944, in the isolated community of Worsonga, Foya District, Lofa County, Liberia. He is of the Kissi ethnic group. He was raised by his parents, whose names are unknown to the media but can be referred to as Mr. and Mrs. Boakai.

There is no information available about his siblings. Before graduating from the College of West Africa, Joseph Boakai completed his elementary and secondary school in Sierra Leone and Liberia. He graduated from the University of Liberia with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1972.

Career

In the 2005 presidential election, Joseph Boakai ran as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf‘s running mate on the Unity Party ticket. They were elected in a runoff election, and Boakai was inaugurated as Vice President on January 16, 2006.

During his tenure as Vice President, Boakai took charge of the monumental task of rebuilding Liberia after the devastating civil war that had ravaged the country. With determination, he spearheaded numerous initiatives to reconstruct the physical infrastructure and revive and improve crucial sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Recognizing women’s crucial societal role, Joseph Boakai championed their empowerment and fought tirelessly for gender equality, ensuring their voices were heard and their rights protected. His dedication and commitment to uplifting Liberia’s post-war society make him a true leader and advocate for progress.

In 2011, Joseph Boakai had the honor of being chosen as the candidate for the Unity Party in the presidential election. Unfortunately, despite a strong fight, he narrowly lost to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. However, undeterred by his previous setback, Boakai gave it another shot in 2017.

This time, he represented the All Liberian Party (ALP) as their presidential candidate. Regrettably, Boakai was once again unsuccessful in his bid for the presidency as George Weah defeated him in a runoff election.

Joseph Boakai emerged as the presidential candidate for the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) alliance during the 2023 election. Eventually, he won against Weah in a runoff election and assumed office as Liberia’s 29th president.

Personal Life

Joseph Boakai, 79, the president of Liberia, had a previous marriage with Yatta Boakai; however, they eventually divorced. Subsequently, he entered into a new marriage with Katumu Yatta Boakai.

Together, Joseph and Kartumu have been blessed with four children. In addition to his political role, Joseph is also a devoted follower of the Baptist faith and holds the honorable position of deacon at the Effort Baptist Church.

Net Worth

Joseph Boakai, a prominent Liberian politician, has amassed substantial money, with a net worth estimated to be between US$1 million and US$5 million. This riches is largely due to his long political career and savvy financial decisions.

Notably, during his tenure as Vice President of Liberia, from 2006 to 2018, Boakai received an annual salary of $115,000. Additionally, he has made wise investments in the country’s real estate sector and ventured into various lucrative businesses, further augmenting his financial prosperity.