Monrovia – The National Elections Commission (NEC) has reportedly terminated the employment of several staff members who recently protested against the Commission. While sources suggest the number of dismissed employees ranges from 40 to over 70, NEC’s communications office claims it is unaware of such action.
According to a communication dated Monday, December 2, 2024, and titled “Termination of Employment,” the dismissed employees were accused of gross insubordination and disrespect toward the Chairperson’s office. The letter stated:
“You are hereby dismissed, effective immediately, for having shown disrespect and gross insubordination to the Office of the Chairperson. During the period of November 12 – 24, 2024, you left your area of assignment, blocked the Commission’s entrances, and prevented the Chairperson from entering to carry out her duties. Furthermore, this action of yours obstructed the functions of the Commission, paralyzed its operations, and negatively impacted the image of the Commission.”
The letter, signed by Human Resource Director Hauline G. Korkoyah and approved by Executive Director Anthony K. Sengbe, also instructed the dismissed workers to return all NEC property in their possession.
The dismissals come on the heels of a protest staged by NEC employees on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. During working hours, workers beat drums and chanted slogans, demanding overdue salaries and benefits. The employees accused the NEC of corruption and failing to honor their rightful entitlements.
This unrest coincided with a damning report by the Center for Development and Election Management (CEDEM), which raised important concerns about the integrity of Liberia’s electoral process. The report, obtained by Verity Online News, outlined 12 areas of concern and accused the NEC of widespread irregularities that undermined the credibility of the 2023 elections.
CEDEM’s report challenges claims that the 2023 elections met democratic standards, citing the NEC’s lack of competence, integrity, and neutrality. It called for urgent reforms to address systemic flaws that could wear away public trust in the country’s electoral system.
The report also raised questions about the $53 million allocated for the 2023 elections, including $5 million for civic and voter education, which CEDEM claims had minimal impact. The organization recommended a comprehensive audit, amendments to electoral laws, and the appointment of an interim leadership team to restore the commission’s credibility.
The recent protest highlighted deep-seated dissatisfaction among NEC staff. Aggrieved workers have called for the suspension of NEC Chairperson Madam Davidetta Brown-Lassannah, citing internal mismanagement, poor working conditions, and a lack of budget transparency. They presented a petition to both the Legislature and the Executive Branch, detailing their grievances.
One particularly alarming revelation was that 11 NEC staff members reportedly died while on duty, emphasizing the hazardous work environment at the Commission.
Despite these allegations, Madam Brown-Lassannah has repeatedly denied the claims, asserting that the institution’s challenges are being exaggerated. However, growing discontent and calls for her suspension have intensified pressure on the leadership to take immediate corrective action.
As NEC struggles to maintain its operations amidst internal conflicts, CEDEM has emphasized the urgency of implementing electoral reforms. These include conducting a thorough audit, aligning electoral laws with international standards, and ensuring greater transparency in the commission’s activities.
By: Socrates Smythe Saywon
