-NEC Discloses As Nomination Process Continues
By Vaye A. Lepolu
MONROVIA – The National Elections Commission (NEC) through its Commissioner Barsee Kpangbai, chairperson of the by-election committee, confirmed that five candidates have already secured nomination packages for the pending senatorial by-election. In Nimba County.
According to the Commission, three are affiliated with political parties, while two are running as independents. “Interest continues to grow, with more candidates expected to submit applications before the deadline,” Kpangbai stated, though he declined to name contenders.
The National Elections Commission (NEC) officially launched the nomination process for candidates vying to fill Nimba County’s vacant senatorial seat, with the by-election slated for April 22, 2025. The electoral body also opened media accreditation on March 3, 2025, marking the start of preparations for the high-stakes race, which will engage an estimated 307,256 registered voters across the county’s nine electoral districts.
Budget Finalized
Commissioner Kpangbai revealed that the NEC and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning have finalized 99.9% of the budgetary allocations for the election, though the total figure remains undisclosed. “Full operational deployment in Nimba County will commence once the budget is formally approved,” he added.
A voter education campaign, aimed at ensuring broad participation and transparency, will launch on March 21, 2025. “We are targeting all 397,256 voters and collaborating with local stakeholders to disseminate election guidelines countywide,” Kpangbai emphasized.
Filling a Vacant Seat
The by-election follows the passing of longtime Senator Prince Y. Johnson, who held the seat for over two decades. On February 10, 2025, the NEC formally notified magistrates in Upper and Lower Nimba County and the Liberian government to initiate constitutional procedures for the special election.
