With just eight days remaining until the much-anticipated by-election in District 5, Nimba County, preparations are intensifying as the National Elections Commission of Liberia (NEC-Liberia) and key stakeholders focus on ensuring a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process. Out of the ten candidates contesting in the by-election, seven reaffirmed their commitment to the Farmington River Declaration during a peace gathering held on Monday, August 4, 2025, in Beeplay, Buuyao Administrative District. The peace dialogue served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility political actors share in safeguarding Liberia’s democratic gains. Originally signed in 2017, the Farmington River Declaration was established by NEC-Liberia as a national framework to encourage non-violence, tolerance, and mutual respect among political candidates, parties, and their supporters. The declaration serves as a public pledge to conduct issue-based campaigns free of hate speech, threats, or intimidation. Speaking on behalf of NEC during the peace gathering, Commissioner Floyd Oxley Sayor stressed the importance of maintaining calm and unity throughout the electoral period. “Election is everyone’s business,” Commissioner Sayor said. “It is not just about those who win or lose—it is about Liberia, our democracy, and our shared future. We applaud the candidates who have come forward to reaffirm their commitment to peace, and we urge all remaining contenders and their supporters to do the same.” The peace event was organized by NEC’s Political Affairs Section as part of its broader civic engagement strategy to promote peaceful political participation and protect the integrity of the election. Local leaders, civil society representatives, youth groups, and members of the media were also in attendance. With campaigning reaching its final stretch, NEC is urging all stakeholders to continue engaging voters respectfully and responsibly. The Commission has also reminded the public of the importance of turning out to vote on election day, Monday, August 12, 2025, and doing so in a manner that reflects Liberia’s democratic values. District 5 has garnered national attention as political observers view the by-election as a test of the country's ongoing commitment to peaceful democratic processes amid growing political engagement. NEC-Liberia continues to monitor the situation on the ground and remains confident in the preparedness of its teams to conduct a free, fair, and transparent by-election. For updates, official information, and voter education resources, the public is encouraged to follow NEC Liberia on all social media platforms and visit the Commission’s website.
