The National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia today carried out a symbolic burning of unused electoral materials, including ballot papers from the 2023 General Elections, in a move aimed at clearing storage space and upholding constitutional procedures.
The event, led by NEC Co-Chairperson Cllr. P. Teplah Reeves, took place in Bensonville, where the commission’s Magisterial Office for Upper Montserrado County is located. The exercise was conducted in compliance with legal requirements and paves the way for the NEC to prepare for the upcoming by-election in Nimba County.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cllr. Reeves emphasized that the disposal of the materials was a standard practice to ensure transparency and efficiency in the electoral process. “This exercise is not only constitutional but also necessary to create space for new materials as we prepare for the Nimba by-election,” she stated.
The event was attended by NEC Commissioners Boakai A. Dukuly, Barsee Leo Kpangbai (Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Nimba By-election), and Josephine Kou Gaye. Also present were James Kolubah Govergo Cordor, NEC Magistrate for Upper Montserrado County, representatives from the Liberia National Police, the Liberia National Fire Service, and the office of the Montserrado County Superintendent.
The burning of electoral materials after elections is a routine procedure adopted by the NEC to prevent misuse and maintain the integrity of the electoral process. The commission assured the public that all sensitive documents were securely handled before disposal.
