Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson: A Tribute

Abstract

I have read numerous commentaries on Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s victory in the Liberian Presidential elections. Many have dubbed her “A Woman of Substance”. Others call her the “Iron Lady”. Yet others portray her as the one beacon of hope in “the worst place to be a woman on earth”. A campaign slogan in Monrovia is reported to have read: “Ellen, She’s Our Man”; another urged people to “Vote for the Old Ma”- a sign of deference and respect for the elder status and consequent wisdom Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is assumed to have garnered over the years. Having won the most votes in Liberia’s run-off election for President, Ms. Sirleaf-Johnson stands on the threshold of becoming the first woman head of state in Africa. She has turned the tide of male-dominated control over the commanding heights of African politics, opening up the possibility that the 21st Century is the century of the African woman in politics. Indeed, this is a victory to be celebrated. As an African woman, I am proud of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for her accomplishments and achievements. Her electoral victory comes a path-breaking development in African politics and a watershed moment in Liberia’s history.