Liberia: Fierce Elections in Liberia, as 1030 Candidates Compete for 105 Seat 

The process leading to the ‘fierce’ 2023 presidential and legislative elections has started with exactly 1030 candidates vying for positions meant for 105 candidates, the National Elections Commission (NEC) has disclosed.

Among the 105 successful candidates, 925 will have to accept defeat.

Mr. Barsee Leo-Kpangbai, a NEC commissioner, disclosed during a youth peace summit organized by the Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) recently in Sinkor, Monrovia.

He told the youthful gathering that out of the 1030 candidates who successfully registered and gained certification, a total of 800 individuals are contending for 73 seats in the House of Representatives while 73 candidates are at head-to-head for the 15 available seats in the Senate.

For the Presidency which will be occupied by one person, a total of 20 candidates are zealously competing for this position.

Despite these numbers, the NEC commissioner used the gathering to discourage young people from resorting to violence in these elections.

According to Commissioner Kpangbai who is bestowed with oversight responsibilities for Parties, Counties, and Programs, there is a remarkable swell in first-time voters, with 513,225 individuals registering during the designated registration period. He said this upsurge in first-time voters demonstrates their crucial role in shaping the outcome of the 2023 elections.

Commenting on speculations that NEC will cheat in favor of the ruling establishment, he used the occasion to assure the gathering of young people that the commission remains committed to free, fair, and transparent elections in the country.

“Nobody should fool you to say the National Elections will cheat, what you give us is what we will give you,” Commissioner Kpangbai said.

He also used the opportunity to underscore that authentic leadership in Liberia is synonymous with a peaceful environment.