Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Politician and President of Liberia since 2006. Date of Birth: 29.10.1938 Country: Liberia

1. Biography of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
2. Early Career
3. Political Career
4. Presidency and Achievements
5. Other Roles and Organizations
6. Personal Life

Biography of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is a politician and the President of Liberia since 2006. She was officially declared the winner of the elections on November 23, 2005. She is the first female President of an African country. Her Vice President is Joseph Boakai. Known for her strict character and determination, she is often compared to the "Iron Lady".

Early Career

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was invited to work in the Liberian government as an assistant to the Minister of Finance in the administration of President William Richard Tolbert after obtaining her MBA degree from Harvard University in 1972. However, she faced accusations of stealing over $3 million. In 1980, she became the Minister of Finance and held the position until 1985 under the government of Samuel Doe. She was sentenced to ten years in prison for criticizing the military regime led by the President. However, she was soon released and exiled from the country to Nairobi, Kenya. She was able to return to Liberia in 1997 as an economist for the World Bank and Citibank.

Political Career

Initially supporting Charles Taylor in his fight against Sergeant Samuel Doe, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf later opposed him in the 1997 presidential elections. She only received 10% of the votes, while her opponent Taylor won with 75%. Charles Taylor accused her of betrayal, as Ellen launched an active campaign to discredit him in preparation for the 2005 elections. With the departure of Charles Taylor, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf regained leadership in the Unity Party. In the first round of voting, she received 192,326 votes, placing second behind the famous footballer George Weah. In the second round, which took place on November 8, she was declared the winner. On November 11, the National Elections Commission confirmed Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's victory, with over 20% of the voters casting their votes in her favor. Local and independent foreign observers did not find any serious irregularities.

Presidency and Achievements

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was inaugurated as the President of Liberia on January 16, 2006. Her inauguration was attended by U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and First Lady Laura Bush. As President, she focused on rebuilding Liberia's economy, promoting peace and reconciliation, and fighting corruption. Under her leadership, Liberia experienced significant economic growth and stability. She also played a key role in advocating for women's rights and empowerment.

Other Roles and Organizations

In addition to her political career, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has been involved in various organizations and institutions. She is the founder of the International Institute for Women in Political Leadership and is a member of the Advisory Council of the Modern Africa Growth and Investment Company and the Financial Committee of Modern Africa Fund Managers. She also serves as the President of the Liberian Bank for Development and Investment and the Kormah Development and Investment Corporation. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has held senior positions in the World Bank and Citibank.

Personal Life

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has four sons and six grandchildren, some of whom reside in Atlanta, Georgia.