By Precious D. Freeman
As the clock ticks toward the much-anticipated Nimba County Senatorial By-Election set for April 22, 2025, the National Elections Commission (NEC) is intensifying its preparations to deliver a transparent, free, and credible poll.
Through its Training Section, the NEC yesterday began a comprehensive refresher workshop at its headquarters in Monrovia.
The focus of the session is to reorient staff on polling and counting procedures, a crucial step aimed at ensuring that all personnel are adequately equipped to manage the technical and logistical aspects of the electoral process.
The by-election is being held to fill the vacant Senate seat in Nimba County following the results of the 2023 general elections.
With a politically active and populous electorate, the outcome of the election is expected to have significant implications not only for Nimba County but for national politics as well.
At the launch of the training, NEC Co-Chairperson, Cllr. P. Teplah Reeves, addressed the participants with a note of caution and encouragement.
She emphasized the importance of personal well-being, especially for those assigned to field operations.
“You are the face of the Commission in Nimba County. Your professionalism, accuracy, and discipline will determine the success of this process. But equally, we urge you to monitor your health and stay safe while serving in the field,” Cllr. Reeves said.
Commissioner Barsee Leo Kpangbai, who chairs the Nimba By-Election Committee, reiterated the staff’s responsibility to uphold integrity and support polling teams effectively.
“You’re not just observers; you are facilitators of democracy. On election day, your task is to guide, support, and help polling officials execute their duties seamlessly. Your knowledge and adherence to procedure are vital,” Commissioner Kpangbai emphasized.
Also present were Commissioners Boakai A. Dukuly and Josephine Kou Gaye, both of whom underscored the importance of teamwork, vigilance, and impartiality in election administration. They encouraged staff to anticipate challenges but remain calm and solutions-oriented in the face of pressure.
The NEC has pledged to deploy well-trained and adequately resourced polling teams to every voting precinct in Nimba County, with the goal of ensuring all eligible citizens can cast their votes without obstruction or delay.
As the training continues, the Commission is also finalizing logistics for the deployment of sensitive and non-sensitive materials, as well as coordinating with security agencies to guarantee a peaceful electoral environment.
With a lone female and six male candidates vying for the vacant seat, the race in Nimba County is expected to be competitive.
The NEC is calling on all political parties, candidates, and supporters to adhere to the electoral laws and maintain peace during the campaign and voting period.
The Nimba by-election is not just a regional affair; it is a test of Liberia’s democratic maturity and institutional capacity. The NEC says it is committed to rising to the occasion.
“We owe it to the people of Nimba and Liberia to deliver an election that reflects the true will of the people,” Cllr. Reeves concluded.
NEC Holds Refresher Training For Nimba B-election
