Social media, especially Facebook, has been ablaze with comments about Liberian President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s surprise heat exhaustion-related speech stoppage during his inauguration.
A large number of Liberians excitedly awaited the new leader’s inaugural speech as they watched the live stream of the inauguration ceremony on Facebook. But everyone was taken aback when the address abruptly ended owing to heat fatigue.
Liberian journalist, Edwin Clarke attributed the near collapse of the Liberian leader during his inaugural speech to the length of the speech as written by the speechwriter, “The speech writer didn’t do well!”
One of the nation’s top journalists and talk show host, Julius Jeh begs to differ with his colleague, Edwin Clarke and others blaming the speechwriter;
“A speech reader always decides the final touches of a speech: length, content, key messages, etc. No time to shift blames. Stop!”
An apologist of the Unity Party, Martin Kollie continues the usual fray of providing excuses;
“Heat exhaustion is a normal phenomenon. It happens to anyone. Tight space, hot sun, overcrowded. The speechwriter should be succinct next time. The new president is fit and ready to serve”.
Facebook users voiced concern for the President’s health and well-being as soon as the incident became a trending topic. Some commenters commended the security guards for their prompt action in assisting the President.
Despite the differing opinions, Many Liberians are upbeat and excited about the incoming government. “The citizenry expects Amb. Boakai to bring that positive change that we so desperately yearn for,” one user said. In the first 200 days, I think the Rescue Mission will bring about a shift”.
This occurrence serves as a reminder of the influence social media has over public opinion and debate, especially during major political events. It will be interesting to see how this digital discourse develops further as the new administration takes office.
