In a surprising turn of events, the eagerly anticipated 2023/24 National County Sports Meet has been postponed, with Minister D. Zeogar Wilson officially announcing the decision. The postponement aims to accommodate the incoming government of President-elect Joseph Boakai, continuing a tradition initiated during the 2017 transition from President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to President George Manneh Weah.
Minister Wilson began the statement by shedding light on the historical context of the decision, emphasizing the precedent set during the transition from President-elect Weah’s predecessor. In 2017, the transitional team of President-elect George Manneh Weah requested the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf government to relinquish the hosting of the National County Sports Meet, allowing the incoming administration to take charge of the event. Madam Sirleaf’s government graciously agreed to the request, establishing a tradition of sports event transition.
Following this tradition, the transitional team of President-elect Joseph Nyuman Boakai has made a similar appeal to President George Manneh Weah, requesting that the upcoming National County Sports Meet be postponed to allow the Boakai-led government to host the prestigious competition. In a spirit of continuity and respect for the democratic process, President Weah has accepted this request, highlighting a collaborative effort to uphold the established tradition during political transitions.
Consequently, the National County Sports Meet, originally scheduled for a specific date, will experience a delay to facilitate the smooth transition of hosting responsibilities to the incoming government. Minister Wilson conveyed the official decision, stating, “In view hereof, the National County Sports Meet is hereby postponed to allow the new government to host it.” The abruptness of this decision, though aimed at ensuring a seamless transition, has not gone unnoticed.
The Minister extended his sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused by this unexpected development, acknowledging the potential impact on participating counties and sponsors. The announcement emphasizes the government’s commitment to a peaceful transition and the importance of fostering continuity in national events.
This decision to postpone the National County Sports Meet reflects the understanding and cooperation between outgoing and incoming administrations, showcasing a commitment to the principles of democracy and a smooth transfer of power. As the nation eagerly awaits the rescheduled event under the new government, the transition tradition in hosting sports meets serves as a testament to Liberia’s democratic values and collaborative spirit in the realm of sportsmanship.