Latest opinion polls show that Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, a leading contender in Liberia's presidential vote, is slightly trailing behind Africa Soccer Legend George Weah, who is enjoying a tremendous following from the youth, Ghana News Agency (GNA) reported Monday.

"We want a new generation president -- somebody who has never been involved in any of the political game in the past," 38-year old Ben Toweh, who runs a blacksmith shop in the Sinkor area of Monrovia, told the GNA.

Many others including 26-year-old hotel receptionist shared the same view, describing Weah as belonging to the new generation to take Liberia into "a new future."

Sirleaf's critics said she is part of Liberia's political problem, having held various positions in the past.

"We cannot trust people like her this time. She was part of it but could not do anything better," said a young commercial driver.

Earlier in the day, Former US President Jimmy Carter, whose Carter Foundation is observing the polls, expressed satisfaction about preparations made so far, saying Tuesday's vote "will be fine."

He called on the contesting parties to remain committed to the democratic process so that their country could once again stand on its feet.

Liberia is to hold its first post-war general elections on Tuesday since the end of a 14-year civil war in August 2003.

Source: Xinhua