Liberian voters waited in long voting lines Tuesday

The U.S. ambassador to Liberia, Donald Booth, says Tuesday's post-war elections were peaceful, free and fair.

In an appearance on VOA's Straight Talk Africa program, Mr. Booth said he personally observed some of the ballot counting process, calling it transparent.

Mr. Booth also praised Liberian voters, who he said stood patiently in long lines, in some cases, for hours to cast their ballots.

He said the United States has recognized the importance of free and fair elections in Liberia, providing money to train poll monitors, educate voters and support the United Nation's mission there.

Mr. Booth says the United States government has been deeply engaged in bringing peace to Liberia since helping usher in a 2003 peace deal.