The National Elections Commission (NEC) has officially acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Liberian Senate, announcing a vacancy in the 55th National Legislature. This development follows the passing of Nimba County’s longtime senator, Prince Y. Johnson, a figure whose influence in Liberian politics spanned decades.
In a letter addressed to NEC’s Acting Chairperson, Cllr. P. Teplah Reeves, the Senate formally declared the vacancy, fulfilling its constitutional obligation as outlined in Article 37 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia. The letter, signed by Senate Secretary Nanborlor F. Singbeh Sr., reaffirmed that this communication serves as NEC’s legal and sufficient authority to take the next steps in filling the seat.
What Happens Next?
According to Article 37, when a legislative seat becomes vacant due to death, resignation, expulsion, or any other reason, the presiding officer of the Senate is required to notify NEC within 30 days. From that point, the Elections Commission has up to 90 days to conduct a by-election—unless the vacancy occurs within 90 days of a general election, in which case the seat remains unfilled until then.
With NEC now officially informed, all eyes turn to the commission for further announcements regarding the timeline for the by-election in Nimba County. The process ahead will not only determine a new representative for the people of Nimba but will also test NEC’s ability to efficiently manage an electoral process that is expected to attract significant political interest.
As the nation anticipates the next steps, one thing remains certain—Nimba County’s Senate seat, once occupied by one of Liberia’s most controversial and politically strategic figures, is now up for grabs.
