MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The National Elections Commission (NEC) will officially launch preparations for Nimba County’s senatorial by-election by issuing a writ of election on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM. This crucial step comes in response to the vacancy left by the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson, marking the beginning of a competitive race for his successor.
The Liberian Senate formally informed NEC of the vacancy last week, fulfilling its constitutional duty to notify the elections body whenever a legislative seat becomes unoccupied. The official communication, signed by Senate Secretary Nanborlor F. Singbeh Sr., was received by Acting NEC Chairperson Cllr. P. Teplah Reeves. The notification reaffirmed compliance with Article 37 of the Liberian Constitution, which requires NEC to be informed within 30 days of a senator’s death, resignation, or removal, with a by-election mandated within 90 days unless the vacancy occurs too close to a general election.
Senator Johnson’s death on November 28, 2024, at the age of 72, marked the end of his decades-long dominance over Nimba County’s political landscape. His influence shaped both regional and national politics, making the contest for his seat one of high stakes. As a figure whose tenure was often defined by controversy, his passing leaves a significant power vacuum in the Senate.
The NEC emphasized that the writ of election sets in motion the legal framework for conducting the by-election in a transparent and credible manner. It assured the public that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure a free and fair process.
