MONROVIA – In a comprehensive situational report on the outcome of the 2023 presidential runoff election, the Liberia Elections Observation Network (LEON) announced that its sample-based observation (SBO) findings align closely with the official results released by the National Elections Commission (NEC). LEON’s analysis, based on a statistically relevant sample of 904 polling places across all 73 electoral districts, indicated consistency with NEC’s results, instilling confidence in the electoral process.
The 99.58% of results released by NEC on November 17, 2023, were found to be in harmony with LEON’s SBO projections. The network commended the NEC for conducting its duties with professionalism, largely adhering to policies and procedures. LEON also applauded the Liberian people for their peaceful and orderly participation in both the presidential and legislative elections.
LEON’s SBO methodology involved deploying 904 short-term observers, supported by long-term observers, field coordinators, and mobile field observers. These observers, accredited by NEC, followed voting and counting processes at randomly selected polling places, providing a comprehensive and statistically sound assessment of the electoral cycle. The observers signed pledges of impartiality and neutrality, ensuring the integrity of the data collected.
The SBO approach allowed LEON to project a midpoint result estimate for each candidate within an estimated range of possible results. The estimated range served as a margin of error, demonstrating the reliability of NEC’s official results within the context of statistical principles.
While the final results are yet to be officially declared by NEC, President George Manneh Weah conceded the election with grace and dignity on the night of November 17, 2023. LEON acknowledged this gesture and appealed to the eventual winner to be magnanimous and act as a unifying force for all Liberians.
LEON’s preliminary assessment of the 2023 general elections commended the NEC for administering the electoral process competently and transparently. The network plans to analyze its data further to prepare a preliminary statement and a final report on the overall quality and integrity of the presidential and legislative elections.
In conclusion, LEON commended the Liberian people for their peaceful participation, expressing inspiration by the successful implementation of the country’s democracy. As Liberia moves forward, the network encouraged all citizens to take pride in their nation’s democratic achievements and unity.
