The Elections Coordinating Committee (ECC) has emphasized the need for electoral reforms as a top priority for Liberia to build on its recent democratic advancements. Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia, ECC Chairperson Malcolm Joseph stressed the importance of strengthening the legal framework governing elections and fulfilling campaign commitments made to the Liberian populace. He pointed out that while Liberia possesses a foundational legal structure for elections, the weak enforcement of these laws has hindered their effective implementation. The ECC’s call for reform is part of a broader effort to ensure that the new administration under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai addresses critical governance and development issues, aligning with the promises made during the campaign.
In a bid to improve the electoral landscape, Mr. Joseph proposed that various stakeholders engage constructively in the reform process. Key entities mentioned include the Legislature, the Ministry of Justice, and members of the executive branch of government. Acknowledging the competing development priorities in Liberia, he reiterated that electoral reforms should be prioritized to fortify the democratic gains achieved over the past year. The ECC has already initiated dialogues with members of the Legislature, international and domestic stakeholders, and political parties supportive of electoral reform, marking these engagements as essential for enhancing the quality and execution of future elections.
The ECC has put forth several specific reform proposals aimed at improving the electoral system. One of the key suggestions is for the government to establish a threshold for boundary delimitation while also making amendments to campaign finance laws and regulations. In the absence of comprehensive constitutional reform, the ECC advocates for changes to the New Election Law (NEL). These changes include the creation of an ad hoc electoral tribunal and modifications to Section 6.8 of the NEL to broaden access to electoral justice. Another significant proposal is for the appointment process of NEC Board of Commissioners to undergo public vetting, enhancing transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Further recommendations by the ECC involve amending Section 3.1 (2) of the NEL to adjust eligibility requirements for candidates. Additionally, the organization has suggested a transition to a passive voter registration system, which could be achieved through regulatory amendments that raise the maximum number of voters from 3,000 to 4,000. These proposals are part of a broader strategy to streamline electoral processes and make them more accessible to citizens, thereby promoting greater engagement in the democratic process.
As part of its initiatives to monitor and improve electoral integrity, the ECC manages the Liberia Domestic Elections Observation Activity, receiving funding from USAID. This program has positioned the ECC as the largest domestic election observation network in Liberia since its establishment in 2010. Equipped with diverse competencies and experiences in governance, elections, and democracy, the ECC plays a critical role in ensuring that electoral processes align with international standards and the expectations of the Liberia public.
In conclusion, the ECC’s advocacy for electoral reforms underlines the necessity of a robust legal framework to support Liberia’s democratic evolution. The call for collaboration among various stakeholders highlights the complexity of governance in the country. By prioritizing electoral reforms, the ECC aims to reinforce the integrity of elections and enhance citizen participation in the democratic process. The proposed changes, from campaign finance adjustments to improved electoral access, exemplify a focused effort to address existing weaknesses and ensure that the promise of democracy is realized in Liberia.
