NEC Chair confirms Senatorial By-Election is peaceful Outlines Challenges and Remedies
April 22, 2025
By Matalay Kollie
Sanniquellie, Nimba County: The National Elections Commission chair has confirmed to journalists and partners that the ongoing Nimba County Senatorial By-Election is peaceful on the overall outlining challenges and providing remedies.
During comprehensive briefing held in Sanniquellie. NEC’s chair, Davidetta Brown Lansannah, along with other commissioners, confirmed that all 262 voting precincts and 736 polling places opened on time at 8:00am and were set to remain operational until 6:00pm, announcing that approximately 307,254 registered voters were anticipated to participate in the election,
The NEC Chairperson expressed satisfaction regarding the peaceful conditions reported in both Upper Tappita and Sanniquellie as well lower Magisterial Offices, noting no significant incidents of violence during the initial voting hours.
Despite the smooth start, several challenges were reported. The NEC addressed recent concerns stemming from an incident at the J.W. Pearson Campus, where prospective temporary staff members had alleged that the commission was replacing them with new hires. The NEC clarified that it had employed a dedicated recruitment portal to ensure a fair selection process for temporary poll workers, allowing for the recruitment of qualified personnel.
The commission also acknowledged that some polling places faced delays in opening. However, it assured the public that extended polling hours would be implemented to make up for the time lost at these locations. Specific issues included delays at Messiah Christian Academy (Precinct #33075), which were attributed to late payment concerns, though security personnel ensured that polling resumed shortly thereafter.
Additionally, Geolando Public School (Precinct #33076) experienced tension between party agents and voters; this situation was deftly resolved by polling officials in conjunction with security forces. In Saclepea District, Venn Town Public School was deemed unsuitable for voting due to a compromised roof, leading the NEC to successfully relocate the polling to a nearby church.
The NEC also faced challenges in Tappita, where the LDEA occupied the Tappita Civil Compound Building, prompting the commission to set up a temporary voting tent. At Vanpa (Precinct #33111), renovations at the school hindered access for polling staff, necessitating a transfer to a church facility within the vicinity.
Despite these challenges, the NEC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. The situation is being closely monitored, with the commission promising further updates as developments unfold. NEC’s proactive measures underscore its dedication to facilitating a peaceful and efficient electoral experience for the citizens of Nimba County.
“This report is intended for public distribution, highlighting the NEC’s efforts in maintaining the integrity of Liberia’s electoral process during this significant event”.
