29 December 2017 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) has congratulated Liberian President-elect, George Weah on his election victory.
The National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia announced the election of the former World, European and African Footballer of the Year with a 61,5% of the vote.
SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan who worked with Weah before, during and after the 2010 FIFA World Cup said he was elated for this historic moment.
“Weah was an embodiment of professionalism on and off the pitch during his playing days and literally sponsored the Lone Stars of Liberia; something you hardly see among football players.
“After his playing days, he continued to support the national team while venturing into politics. The whole of Africa must be proud of the road His Excellency George (Weah) took to where he is today,” said Dr Jordaan.
The SAFA President said Weah was the biggest name in African football but didn’t allow fame to get into his head.
“He remained humble, focussed and his commitment to serving his people has seen him being elected the first professional footballer to lead his country. This is historic.
“To the people of Liberia, we join you and the rest of Africa in celebrating this momentous time. To George Weah, I want to say on behalf of the South African football family that congratulation. Personally, having closely worked with you, I will continue to give you my unqualified support.
“You have made the football family and Africa proud,” added Dr Jordaan.
In his victory speech, Weah said he would want to work with all Liberians, no matter their political affiliations, in order to move the country forward towards progress.