August 22, 2005
George’s Not So Common
Way
In Portugal, they like to say that if Chelsea manager
Jose Mourinho were to run for Prime Minister he’d
be a landslide winner. It is the kind of praise commonly
heaped upon shinning stars of the sports world; a safe
thing to say because it won’t be tested out.
But 10 years later, after taking soccer by storm,
George Weah, the former Monaco sensation, Paris Saint
Germaine attraction, AC Milan maestro and FIFA World
Player of the Year is ready to take such recognition
to trial. But, his is not your common story.
Late last week, the National Elections Committee,
ruling on a protest of ineligibility, approved Weah’s
petition to run for President, leading his youthful
Congress for Democratic Change party into the first
free elections Liberia has known in 14 years of ruthless
civil war, bloody dictatorship and subsequent political
disorder. Never known for doing the easy thing, Weah
could have stayed in Europe living the life prized by
most people with a seven figure income. But he never
did detach himself from his native land and whatever
he could do for it.
The popularity as a footballer took on new meaning.
Throughout the land, adoring crowds, nicknames of Big
Papa, King George, The Ambassador, and generosity with
his money only positioned Weah as a threat to the warlords.
His family suffered violently for it. That didn’t
stop Weah from insisting upon a Liberian run at qualifying
for World Cup 2002. He personally set up a National
Team training base outside the country, coached, played
and personally financed the team, and then, nearly beat
African powerhouse Nigeria for the only berth in their
group.
The Presidency is not just wishful thinking. With
only two months till election day, campaigning will
be short and furious. Probably violent. The early line
has George Weah as a leading contender, not for any
political savy, but because his heart represents the
best hope of restoration.
All the world is looking closely for signs of a sustainable
Africa.
If successful, George Weah, FIFA World Player of the
Year, could well be distinguished the World Footballer
with a Nobel Peace Prize.
Dennis Fitter, Contributing Writer, 90:00™
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