George Weah: ‘a tyrant remains a tyrant, even after winning an election’

Former Liberia president George Weah called on African leaders to uphold democratic principles, arguing that winning an election is not enough to turn an authoritarian leader into a democrat. The former head of state and ex-football star spoke at the 2026 conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

George Weah in particular warned against leaders who, despite coming to power through the ballot box, continue to govern using authoritarian methods. According to him, winning an election and obtaining an official certificate does not change the nature of a leader who wields power in a tyrannical manner.

The former Liberian president also urged African political leaders to strengthen democracy and respect its fundamental principles. He views authoritarian regimes as one of the main threats to the continent’s democratic institutions. “Let me be clear on another point, because this is often the more dangerous of the two threats facing democracy,” George Weah said. His remarks come as debates over governance, the rule of law and democratic consolidation feature prominently in political discussions across Africa.