Ganta, Nimba County – The National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia has launched the final leg of its regional consultations with civil society organizations (CSOs) in Ganta on March 24-25 2026.
By D. Franklin Doloquee
The two-day session aims to gather feedback on NEC’s Civic and Voter Education (CVE) efforts during the conclusion of the presidential and representative elections.
Paul N. Wreh Wilson, Director of Civic and Voter Education at NEC’s Department of Programs, underscored the commission’s commitment to refining electoral processes.
“The elections commission’s work continues, even when the election is over,” Mr. Wilson told reporters. “We’re hearing from our service providers those who supported us in the 2023 elections about their concerns, challenges and recommendations to enhance our work,’’ Mr. Wilson said.
“This marks the third and final regional session. The first in Tubmanburg included CSOs from Grand Cape Mount, Bomi and Gbarpu Counties. The second in Maryland County involved groups from Grand Kru, River Gee, Grand Gedeh and Maryland. The Ganta event brings together representatives from Lofa, Bong, Nimba, Grand Bassa, Rivercess and Margibi Counties,’’ Mr. Wilson stated.
Participants highlighted key challenges, including poor road networks such as crossing rivers by canoe in remote areas inadequate funding for vast regions and late starts to civic education.
“As Liberians, we know how to navigate these challenges,” Mr. Wilson noted. “But we need to start sooner, improve funding and enhance logistics,’’ he pointed out.
“Sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with other donor support, the initiative will produce recommendations for NEC policymakers, the board and partners,’’ Mr. Wilson praised the strong turnout.
“I’m happy they responded to our call. This program has been planned for a long time. We thank UNDP for their understanding and sponsorship to ensure Liberians understand the democratic process and we can improve our electoral work,’’ he asserted.
“NEC plans to compile insights from all sessions to strengthen future voter education ahead of upcoming elections. NEC Reviews CSO Role Amid Funding Gaps.’’
In a related address, Ignatius B. Wisseh, NEC’s Deputy Executive Director for Programs (DEDP), urged participants to reflect honestly on their contributions.
“Tell us what you did well, what your challenges were and your recommendations,” he said. “This is our review process we’re taking stock of what we did positively and how we can improve,’’ Mr. Wisseh highlighted past successes but stressed shifting focus from group or personal benefits to nationwide impact.
“We’re not talking about what the group will benefit from. We’re talking about what the Liberian people will benefit from in general.”
Key improvements include expanding processes, enhancing transparency through public information sharing and building public confidence in elections.
‘‘Funding remains a major hurdle. U.S. government support for CSOs has diminished, leaving some projects inoperable. EU-funded initiatives are set to expire by year’s end, creating a significant gap after the end of UCI funding,’’ Mr. Wisseh noted.
“The commission faces a huge task: ensuring confidence in elections. Without reliable CSO backing, NEC plans to rely more on government funding to activate CVE cells and other mechanisms. County-grouped participants were encouraged to collaborate,’’ Mr. Wisseh uttered.
“We pray that we all work together. We hope to get what we need from you, so the workings of elections will be improved.
The session underscores NEC’s push for self-reliance and innovation amid international funding shortfalls, aiming to eliminate doubts in Liberia’s electoral system,’’ he added.
Establishing the LNTA was therefore seen as a strategic reform that would provide autonomy, improved management, and dedicated sectoral leadership.
Early Institutional Achievements
Among its first accomplishments, the Authority facilitated Liberia’s re-admission to the UNWTO, reconnecting the country with global tourism networks, standards, and partnerships.
The ongoing awareness campaign is part of broader national efforts to reposition tourism as a catalyst for job creation, cultural preservation, and economic diversification aligned with Liberia’s long-term development agenda.
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