Dozens of National Elections Commission (NEC) staff members have taken to the streets near the Executive Mansion, protesting the alleged misuse of USD $8 million meant for staff benefits and allowances.
The protest, escalating throughout the day, stems from claims by NEC Chair Davidetta Browne-Lansanah that the funds were remitted to the Government of Liberia’s (GOL) coffers,a claim that some commissioners and protesting staffers have labeled as “false and misleading.”
The protest highlights rising tensions within the NEC as staff members demand answers regarding the funds. Protesters claim that these resources, earmarked for much needed allowances and benefits, have instead been misappropriated.
Placards and chants from staffers voiced a clear message: transparency and accountability are needed from their leadership.
In response to the escalating demands, Browne-Lansanah reiterated that the funds were transferred to the GOL, pointing to legal budgetary procedures that necessitate such actions.
However, NEC staff and some commissioners continue to challenge this narrative, accusing leadership of obscuring the truth.
Verity News has obtained an extensive collection of financial documents, including supplementary budgets, fund statements, budget variance analyses, and estimated allocations, which indicate discrepancies in fund management.
These documents reveal potential gaps in accounting practices that raise questions about the whereabouts and handling of the $8 million in question.
As tensions rise, many within Liberia’s political circles are watching closely, questioning whether these protests signal deeper challenges within the NEC and the country’s budget management practices.
The government has yet to respond publicly to the allegations, though political analysts suggest pressure may soon mount for an official inquiry.
