-As Aggrieved Workforce Seeks Government Intervention
By Vaye A. Lepolu
The internal crisis at the National Elections Commission (NEC) has intensified following the dismissal of staff members on December 2, potentially leading to renewed protests at the NEC headquarters.
Mr. Rennie B. Gleegbar, Chairperson of the Aggrieved Workforce at NEC, criticized Chairperson Madam Davidetta Browne Lansanah for instructing Human Resource Director Ms. Pauline Garmai Korkoya and Executive Director Mr. Anthony Sengbe to dismiss employees instead of seeking a resolution to the ongoing crisis.
Gleegbar claims that this action appears to be a deliberate attempt to provoke further unrest among staff and undermine the Ministry of State’s efforts to mediate a peaceful solution. He argues that Executive Director Sengbe is occupying his position illegally, citing a violation of Section 2.19, paragraph one of the 1986 Elections Law, which mandates that the commissioners appoint the Executive Director through a transparent selection process, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in favor.
According to Gleegbar, the Executive Director does not have the authority to dismiss staff members for exercising their constitutional rights, as outlined in the same section of the elections law. Following Madam Lansanah’s unilateral decision, the aggrieved workforce communicated their grievances to both the Ministry of Labour and the Civil Service Agency (CSA) regarding the illegal dismissals, but they have yet to receive any response.
The NEC’s aggrieved workforce has outlined several demands to the Liberian government, asserting that failure to address these issues will result in continued protests. Their key requests include the reinstatement of all NEC staff wrongfully dismissed by Madam Lansanah, the suspension of the chairperson from overseeing NEC operations, and addressing her alleged dictatorial management style, which they claim lacks moral authority. “We urge the Board of Commissioners to take action regarding Executive Director Anthony Sengbe by Section 2.19 of the new elections law,” the aggrieved workforce stated.
Additionally, the group is demanding the payment of four months’ general allowances and medical insurance for staff as part of the 2025 fiscal budget. They also pointed out that despite years of service, there is no existing policy manual for NEC employees, contrary to claims made by the chairperson. “We will continue to fight for our rights against constitutional violations and demand our four months of benefits,” they declared.
The aggrieved staffers reported that they have held several meetings with the NEC Board of Commissioners and have even escalated their concerns to the Senate Committee of the Liberian Senate. Despite these efforts, they remain committed to pursuing dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis.
