The opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has issued a strong warning over the appointment of Jonathan K. Weedor as Chairman of the National Elections Commission (NEC), describing the move as a serious threat to Liberia’s electoral integrity and national stability.
In a press statement released Monday, the CDC accused President Joseph Boakai of making a “non-neutral” appointment that could undermine public confidence in the country’s democratic process and potentially trigger instability with regional implications.
The party said its concerns are rooted in “historical precedent, recent actions, and documented patterns of electoral distrust,” pointing specifically to Weedor’s alleged conduct during the 2023 elections. According to the CDC, Weedor publicly aligned himself with former NEC leadership, including James Formoyan, and prematurely declared victory for the ruling Unity Party during the first round of voting—actions the CDC claims contributed to public skepticism and tension.
The CDC argued that Liberia’s fragile democracy cannot afford what it described as a politically compromised leadership at the NEC. “Electoral credibility cannot be purchased; it must be built through actions that inspire public confidence,” the statement emphasized.
The opposition further criticized the Boakai administration for what it called a pattern of governance failures and rights violations over the past two years. These allegations include claims of police brutality, unlawful dismissals of public officials, harassment of opposition figures, and controversial demolition exercises affecting both private citizens and CDC properties.
Among the grievances cited were the alleged mistreatment of former President George Manneh Weah, the prosecution of former government officials, and what the CDC termed as attempts to silence dissenting voices, including Representative Yekeh Kolubah.
The CDC also expressed concern over reports that President Boakai intends to have Weedor act as NEC Chair while his confirmation is still pending, describing the move as a violation of the spirit of Liberia’s recess appointment process. The party argued that the NEC already has a functional Board of Commissioners capable of managing its affairs without an unconfirmed head.
Additionally, the CDC distanced itself from any endorsement of the appointment by the Inter-Party Consultative Committee (IPCC) and called on the NEC to uphold transparency and accountability as the country prepares for the 2029 elections.
In a broader appeal, the CDC urged civil society organizations, student groups, religious institutions, and international partners—including United States Agency for International Development, European Union, and United Nations Development Programme—to take the matter seriously and support efforts to safeguard Liberia’s democracy.
“Liberia stands at a fragile crossroads,” the statement noted, warning that decisions made now will determine whether the country consolidates its democratic gains or risks sliding back into instability.
The CDC concluded by calling for the rejection of Weedor’s appointment, vowing to resist what it described as “bad faith” actions by the current administration through all legal and constitutional means.
As part of its engagement strategy, the party also announced the appointment of a nine-member liaison team to interface with the NEC on electoral matters ahead of the 2029 polls.
Author: Samuel B. Johnson
