The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA), in collaboration with its Liberia Elections Observation Mission (EISA-LEOM), has concluded its election observation activities in Liberia.
The closing ceremony took place on July 23, 2024, in Monrovia, highlighting the importance of effective voter education and sustained support for electoral processes.
EISA’s Country Director and Chief of Party, Antonetta Hamandishe, emphasized the need for donors to adopt an electoral cycle approach, ensuring sustained funding to support the Election Management Body (EMB) and its partners.
She highlighted EISA’s role in providing an informed perspective on the Liberian elections, aiming to avoid one-sided narratives and stereotypes.
“Our role was to be storytellers and witnesses to the process, avoiding the danger of one-sided narratives,” Hamandishe stated.
She expressed appreciation for the collaboration with domestic groups and civil society organizations, which enabled EISA to engage effectively with local stakeholders and amplify their impact.
Hamandishe noted the unique aspects of EISA’s mission in Liberia, including deploying observers for nine months and maintaining a presence in the country for 20 months.
This long-term engagement allowed for consistent monitoring and reporting, significantly enhancing the credibility of the 2023 elections.
“By leveraging USAID’s support, EISA-LEOM has bolstered public confidence in Liberia’s 2023 electoral process,” she said.
The mission conducted over 256 key informant interviews, released 13 public statements, election reports, four research reports, and 28 blog articles, contributing to a transparent and inclusive election environment.
Mrs. Louise Fahnbulleh-Jacobs, EISA AOR for USAID, praised EISA’s spirit of cooperation, transparency, and commitment to democratic principles.
She expressed confidence that the insights gathered would foster greater transparency and trust in future electoral processes.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim Nyei, commended EISA for its significant contribution to credible, transparent, and democratic elections.
He acknowledged the work of the NEC and civil society organizations, expressing hope for future legislative support for women’s participation.
Commissioner Boakai Dukuly of the NEC expressed appreciation for EISA’s efforts in preserving the integrity of the Commission and mitigating interferences during the elections.
He encouraged continued observation and emphasized the need for capacity building for younger NEC staff.
Ambassador Jakob Haselhuber of Germany praised EISA for its comprehensive approach to election observation, noting the professionalism displayed throughout the mission.
South African Ambassador Iqbal M I D Jhazbhay urged other African countries to learn from Liberia’s 2023 elections and praised the NEC for its cooperation with partners.
The European Union lauded EISA for providing an African perspective on elections and democracy, emphasizing its role in promoting human rights and strengthening democracy in Liberia and across Africa.
