ECOWAS Urges Timely Release of Liberia Run-Off Presidential Poll Result

• ECOWAS Election Observation Mission urges Liberia’s NEC for prompt and transparent release of presidential run-off results for stability
• Mission Head, Prof. Attahiru Jega, emphasizes the importance of upholding national unity, peace, and stability during the electoral process

The ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM) has called on the National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia to ensure the prompt and transparent release of the results from the presidential run-off election. The Head of the 80-man ECOWAS Election Observation Mission, Prof. Attahiru Jega, emphasized the importance of timely and transparent results to consolidate the gains made during the October 10 general elections for the stability of Liberia.

The presidential run-off involves former Vice President Joseph Boakai, representing the Unity Party, and incumbent President George Weah. The first round of the election, held on October 10 with 20 candidates, did not produce a winner with the required over 50 percent majority.

In a Preliminary Statement on the election, Jega urged candidates, political alliances, and supporters to uphold the spirit of national unity, peace, and stability.

He referenced commitments made within the framework of the Revised Farmington River Declaration and called on all stakeholders to refrain from any actions that could undermine peace. Additionally, Jega called on security agents to maintain professionalism in executing their duties to uphold order in the country. The ECOWAS Mission stressed the significance of a peaceful electoral process for the overall well-being of Liberia.

ECOWAS Cautions Against Premature Victory Declarations in Liberia’s Election

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a stern warning to candidates participating in Liberia’s recent elections, cautioning them against making premature declarations of victory and pledging to take action against those who incite violence. This advisory comes as Liberia awaits the outcome of its elections, which took place on October 10, where voters decided whether to re-elect football legend George Weah for a second presidential term, alongside electing members of the new parliament. The final results will be announced within two weeks of the vote.

In a statement posted on its website, ECOWAS expressed concern about recent attempts by some Liberian stakeholders to declare premature victories or exert undue pressure on the National Elections Commission (NEC).