The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) International Election Observer Mission [EISA-IEOM] has commended the National Elections Commission (NEC) and its Chairperson, Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, for completing its mandate to conduct the 2023 presidential and legislative elections.
In furtherance, the organization extends its congratulations to President-elect Joseph Nyumah Boakai as he prepares to assume the highest office in the land, and applauds former President George Manneh Weah for his statesmanship by graciously conceding defeat and calling on Liberians to foster unity and peace.
According to EISA-IEOM, Liberian citizens reaffirmed their commitment to democracy during the period between the presidential run-off and the final announcement of results by maintaining law and order. EISA also commends the NEC for conducting the 2023 elections in a challenging context with independence, impartiality, and transparency, paving the way for a continuation of participatory democracy in Liberia.
It lauded the NEC for demonstrating a high level of transparency throughout each stage of the process, from the Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) to a meticulous vote tabulation and collation process and publication of the official results.
“The NEC’s prudent decision to quarantine results from polling stations in Grand Kru County and conduct a rerun in Nimba County is commendable, as it ensured that every vote cast was transparently accounted for.
“While this decision led to a delay in finalizing the official results, Liberians remained calm and orderly while awaiting the results,” EISA-IEOM said in a press statement.
However, EISA urges all political parties to work together to facilitate a smooth transition of power, noting that the Liberian people have demonstrated remarkable patience throughout this protracted electoral process and deserve a government that represents all Liberians and works collaboratively to move the country forward.
“To the newly elected representatives, EISA reminds them of the great faith placed in them by the Liberian voters, and calls on each elected official to uphold the highest standards in the fulfilment of their Constitutional mandate,” the press statement stated.
“The 2023 election was a pivotal moment for Liberia’s democracy, marked by a series of firsts and challenges. The outcome of the two rounds of voting highlights the deep divisions that persist in Liberian society and the ways in which the current political and electoral systems reinforce these divisions,” the press statement said. “EISA emphasizes the urgent need for key leaders in Liberia to bridge these divides and prioritize comprehensive electoral reforms in advance of the next election. Liberia’s political leaders have consistently expressed support for these ideals, and EISA calls upon the newly elected government to work together to realize them.”
It called for an inclusive electoral reform process, with meaningful participation from civil society leaders and strong support from the international community, that will be essential. “EISA urges the new government to swiftly initiate this reform process, and stands ready to provide technical assistance in these efforts and help Liberia achieve its vast potential.
“Looking ahead, EISA calls upon all Liberians to prioritize efforts to strengthen Liberia’s democratic institutions and advance Constitutional reforms. In this regard, EISA draws attention to the various domestic and international observation reports that have highlighted areas where improvements may be required to deepen Liberia’s democratic governance. EISA stands ready to support Liberia on this path towards a more inclusive, just, and prosperous future.
“The EISA team will continue working until the conclusion of the electoral process, and will provide a longer and more detailed report on all aspects of the 2023 Liberian presidential and legislative elections. The final report will include recommendations for future election processes.”