Weah considers political career

By Ledgerhood Rennie
BBC Sport, Monrovia

I'll give the request a lot of serious thought George Weah

Former African and World Footballer of the Year George Weah is considering a bid for the presidency of Liberia.

This follows a request from the Liberian National Congress (LNC), a political grouping which wants Weah to contest the October 2005 election on their platform.

"I'll give the request a lot of serious thought," Weah told BBC Sport.

"I think what they want to do - for the youths to be empowered - is a good thing.

"But it's a decision that needs sober reflection," Weah said.

Bangalu Cole, the LNC's secretary-general, said their appeal to Weah was influenced by his commitment to national progress.

"Those who called themselves politicians over the years have failed us," Cole told BBC Sport.

"We have been thinking of putting forth someone who is exemplary, honest and trustworthy.

"The presidency is about leadership and Weah has always taken the lead as far as Liberia is concerned.

"After having gone through 15 years of fighting, Liberia needs a unifier and Weah stands out above any other," said the LNC official.

Commentators believe that Weah, arguably the country's best-known personality, has a serious chance of being elected president should he accept the LNC's offer.

With young people - who idolize the former Paris St Germain and Chelsea player - forming the majority of Liberia's voting population, Weah is likely to receive their backing.