ECOWAS Urges Calm Amidst Election Tensions in Liberia

Monrovia — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on all stakeholders involved in Liberia’s presidential runoff elections to remain calm while awaiting the official results from the National Elections Commission (NEC).

Expressing deep concern over provocative statements and alleged plans by political actors to prematurely declare victory, the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission to the November 14 elections emphasized the importance of patience and restraint during this critical period.

Despite commending Liberians for the generally peaceful conduct of the elections, the Mission appealed to candidates, political parties, and their supporters to avoid making premature declarations and to await the NEC’s official announcement. The National Elections Commission is the sole entity mandated by law to declare election results.

In a statement released in Monrovia on November 15, 2023, the ECOWAS Mission urged all parties to abide by the spirit of national unity and adhere to commitments outlined in the Revised Farmington River Declaration. The Mission emphasized the need for all candidates, their political alliances, and supporters to exercise restraint and wait for the official results.

Professor Attahiru Jega, Head of the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission to Liberia, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah (PhD), Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security at the ECOWAS Commission, reiterated the importance of a peaceful electoral process, stating, “We appeal to all stakeholders to respect the democratic process and allow the NEC to fulfill its mandate. Premature declarations can be detrimental to the stability of Liberia.”

They warned against any actions that could lead to violence and undermine the hard-earned peace and stability in Liberia. The Commission emphasized that individuals or groups found responsible for such acts would be held accountable.