The National Elections Commission (NEC) has announced plans to seek more than US$72 million from the Liberian government to support preparations for the 2029 Legislative and Presidential Elections, including the implementation of a biometric voter registration exercise scheduled for early 2028.
Speaking Wednesday during the induction ceremony of newly appointed NEC Executive Director Joseph A. Yarsiah, NEC Chairperson Jonathan K. Weedor said the proposed funding is critical to ensuring the commission is adequately prepared to conduct elections that are free, fair, transparent, and credible.
According to Weedor, the commission intends to submit its budget proposal to the government by October 31, stressing that early financial support is essential to strengthening electoral readiness and avoiding logistical challenges ahead of the polls.
He noted that the requested funding would cover key preparatory activities, including voter registration, electoral planning, capacity building, and other operational requirements needed to guarantee a smooth electoral process.
The NEC chairperson emphasized that timely investment in election infrastructure and planning would place the commission in a stronger position to effectively manage the 2029 national elections and uphold public confidence in Liberia’s democratic institutions.
Weedor also called on Liberia’s development partners to place greater emphasis on strengthening local expertise and institutional capacity within the electoral body. He urged stakeholders to invest in sustainable skills development and long-term institutional support rather than relying heavily on foreign consultants and recurring symposiums.
The appeal comes as the NEC begins laying the groundwork for the country’s next general elections, with electoral authorities highlighting the importance of early planning and resource mobilization to ensure a transparent and inclusive democratic process.
