By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – The Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) has strongly opposed the appointment of Jonathan Weedor as Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), describing the decision as a serious threat to Liberia’s democratic integrity and electoral credibility. In a press statement issued on April 1, 2026, the movement raised legal, constitutional, and ethical concerns, calling for the immediate withdrawal of the nomination.
In the statement signed by CMC National Chairman James M.V. Yougie, the organization expressed “grave concern” over the decision by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, arguing that the appointment undermines the neutrality and independence required of the NEC.
The CMC emphasized that the National Elections Commission serves as the guardian of Liberia’s electoral process and must remain free from political influence. According to the group, any attempt to appoint individuals perceived as politically aligned risks eroding public trust in elections and weakening democratic institutions.
Central to the CMC’s argument is what it described as a violation of Section 2.5 of Liberia’s New Elections Law, which prohibits NEC commissioners from holding affiliations with political parties or engaging in political campaigning. The movement alleges that Weedor’s past activities demonstrate clear ties to the ruling Unity Party, raising serious questions about his eligibility to serve in such a sensitive role.
“The appointment of a politically exposed individual with a record that undermines the authority of the very institution he is now being appointed to lead signals a dangerous departure from the principles of neutrality and fairness,” the statement asserted.
The group further warned that placing perceived ruling party loyalists in key electoral positions could damage Liberia’s constitutional guarantee of free and fair elections. It stressed that the NEC must not be viewed as an extension of any political party, but rather as an independent body committed to impartial oversight.
CMC also called on the Liberian Senate to exercise its oversight responsibility by rejecting any nominee whose record suggests allegiance to partisan interests over national duty. The group cautioned against reducing the confirmation process to a mere formality, insisting that credibility must not be sacrificed for political convenience.
In addition to its appeal to lawmakers, the movement urged ordinary Liberians to remain vigilant and to peacefully resist any actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. It emphasized that citizens have a constitutional responsibility to defend their right to credible elections.
The statement also extended its concerns to the international community, calling on global partners to closely monitor developments in Liberia’s electoral governance. According to the CMC, the stability of Liberia’s democracy holds broader regional and international significance.
Reaffirming its position, the movement declared that it would not accept any attempt to undermine the electoral system, warning that Liberia’s history of instability should serve as a reminder of the consequences of compromised democratic processes. The CMC vowed to pursue all legal avenues necessary to protect the country’s democracy.
“Elections are the heartbeat of our democracy,” the statement concluded. “When trust in that process is broken, the consequences are not only political, they are dangerous. It is time to choose democracy, fairness, and Liberia.”
