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Backlash Grows Over Liberia’s New Elections Chief

Criticism is mounting over the appointment of Jonathan K. Weedor as the new chairperson of the National Elections Commission. Opposition figures and civil society groups argue that his previous expressions of support for the ruling Unity Party render him unfit for the role.

"He is a seasoned expert in electoral management... However, the same cannot be said about his independence, an equally important factor," said Anderson Miamen, head of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia. Another group, Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, has said the electoral process must be entrusted to leaders who "demonstrate sound judgment and credibility."

The backlash stems largely from a widely circulated video showing Weedor expressing support for then-candidate Joseph Boakai and making an election projection that ultimately proved inaccurate.

Liberian observer

Newly appointed chairperson of the National Elections Commission Jonathan K. Weedor

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