Johnson-Sirleaf claims poll win in Liberia

The football superstar turned presidential candidate called for a halt today in vote counting that had him heading for defeat in war-ravaged Liberia, but also urged his angry supporters to remain calm.

Thousands of Liberians waved tree branches symbolising peace while hotly debating events overnight, when George Weah’s rival, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, claimed her 18 point lead with over 90% of votes counted made her the victor in Tuesday’s runoff.