President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has suspended Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), for an indefinite period for actions in violation of the Elections Law.
The suspension follows an investigation into recent protests by aggrieved NEC workers regarding administrative decisions taken without proper consultation. According to the findings, Madam Browne-Lansanah unilaterally announced the closure of the NEC office for one month and dismissed 25 employees without the knowledge or approval of the NEC Board of Commissioners, as required by law.
The President cited Section 2.1 and Section 2.10(d) of the Elections Law, which vests the authority to conduct NEC affairs in the Board of Commissioners as a collective body. The law mandates that decisions involving corrective measures against employees must be taken in consultation with the Board, not by the Chairperson or any individual commissioner acting alone.
“While the committee constituted to investigate the grievances of NEC workers was actively addressing the matter, Madam Browne-Lansanah took precipitous and unilateral actions, thereby undermining the integrity and stability of the institution,” the President stated.
The President expressed concern that such actions could adversely impact the NEC’s ability to conduct by-elections scheduled within the next two months, while also creating a toxic working environment at the Commission.
The Government of Liberia remains committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in all institutions, particularly the NEC, which plays a critical role in upholding Liberia’s democratic principles.
