By Precious D. Freeman
The Monrovia City Court has mandated its ministerial officer to ensure the appearance of National Elections Commission (NEC) Chairperson Davidetta Browne-Lansanah.
This order follows allegations that Browne-Lansanah failed to comply with a lawful request from the Office of the Ombudsman.
The Liberian Investigator obtained a communication indicating that the NEC ignored a request from the Ombudsman to provide a current listing of all officials of registered political parties in Liberia and this information is deemed crucial for the effective performance of the Ombudsman’s duties.
The Chairperson of the Ombudsman, Findley Karnga, initially made the request on July 11, 2024, seeking a comprehensive list of all officials of registered political parties.
Despite a follow-up call and an email sent on July 19, 2024, the NEC allegedly did not provide the requested information.
In response to the NEC’s non-compliance, Cllr. Karnga filed a formal complaint with the Monrovia Magisterial Court.
The complaint outlines the NEC’s refusal to provide the necessary information and cites Section 12.3© of the Code of Conduct 2014 (as amended), which empowers the Ombudsman to seek court assistance when information is withheld.
Consequently, the Monrovia Magisterial Court issued a writ of Subpoena Duces Tecum, compelling NEC Chairperson Browne-Lansanah to appear before the court.
She is required to present the comprehensive list of all current officials of registered political parties on August 5, 2024, at 10 AM.
The court’s directive also includes a fine of US$100, which must be paid to the Central Revenue Account of the Government of Liberia at the Central Bank of Liberia.
The Ombudsman is an autonomous body tasked with enforcing, overseeing, monitoring, and evaluating adherence to the Code of Conduct. It is responsible for receiving and investigating all complaints related to adherence to the Code of Conduct.
When a violation is determined, the Ombudsman submits findings of guilt involving private and public officials and government employees to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) or other relevant government agencies.
The Office of the Ombudsman collaborates with the three branches of government and civil society organizations to develop regulations for the Code of Conduct.
