On February 20, 2025, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai reinstated Madam Davidetta Browne Lansanah as Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC). In his communication, the President emphasized the need for reconciliation, unity, and cooperation within the Commission.
In addition to the President’s communication, electoral stakeholders, including members of the international community, have also urged the Board of Commissioners (BOC) and staff of the Commission to promote unity and genuine reconciliation. They called on Chairperson Lansanah to forgive those who plotted against her and to uphold the principles she represents.
“When you return to office, please let go of the past and start fresh,” electoral professionals have advised.
Reports indicate that for the Commission to succeed in the next two years leading up to 2027 when all the tenure of all of the Commissioners but one will end, unity and collaboration are essential.
In a related development, the Commission’s staff members have specifically requested that Madam Lansanah forgives Co-chairperson P. Teplah Reeves, other commissioners, and staffers who conspired against her. Her reinstatement signifies a victory over those who plotted to remove her.
Staff members express confidence that the Chairperson will maintain professionalism at all times in her duties.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the Co-chairperson’s conduct during Madam Lansanah’s absence, including a lack of remorse for her suspension and hasty changes to the administrative structure of the Commission. Additionally, the Co-chairperson instructed security to prevent Madam Lansanah from entering the NEC compound and made disparaging remarks about her boss. She had confidently stated that the Chairperson was “walking on a slippery slope” and would not return to NEC. Such actions have led to perceptions of desperation for the Chairperson’s role. The BOC must reconcile to move the Commission forward.
The other six commissioners of the NEC except the Chairperson of the NEC
Staff members who were dismissed and later reinstated following President Boakai’s intervention have been reminded to exhibit good behavior and not allow themselves to be manipulated for selfish purposes. The President has assured them that he will meet with them in the future.
All NEC staffers are encouraged to return to work with renewed hope and mutual respect. It is crucial to adhere to the Commission’s administrative rules, as violations may not be forgiven in the future.
A scene of one of protest days when workers of the NEC staged a peaceful protest at the Commission
Stakeholders also urged the Chairperson to revise the budget for the pending Nimba County Senatorial By-election to be more reasonable, ideally below US$1.7 million, as the previously submitted budget of US$2.5 million by Cllr. Reeves is deemed unrealistic.
