-For “Disruptive Actions”
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia – A leaked press release from the Executive Mansion reveals that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has suspended Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), for an indefinite period. Her actions have been deemed disruptive to public order and stability. The release was also published on the official Facebook page of the National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia.
Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah‘s suspension comes ahead of a crucial Senatorial by-election in Nimba County, following the death of Senator Prince Johnson. The Chairperson is a tenure position and Madam Browne-Lansanah has more than a year left to exhaust her tenure.
According to the release, the suspension follows an investigation into recent protests by NEC workers. These workers were aggrieved by administrative decisions made without proper consultation. Findings revealed that Madam Browne-Lansanah unilaterally closed the NEC office for one month and dismissed 25 employees without the knowledge or approval of the NEC Board of Commissioners, as required by law.
The President referenced Section 2.1 and Section 2.10(d) of the 1986 New Elections Law. This law grants the Board of Commissioners the authority to conduct NEC affairs collectively. It mandates that decisions regarding employee corrective measures must involve the Board, not be made by the Chairperson or any individual commissioner alone.
“While the committee constituted to investigate the grievances of NEC workers was actively addressing the matter, Madam Browne-Lansanah took precipitous and unilateral actions, thereby undermining the integrity and stability of the institution,” the President stated.
He also expressed concern that these actions could adversely affect the NEC’s ability to conduct upcoming by-elections scheduled within the next two months. Additionally, he noted the potential for a toxic working environment at the Commission.
