Liberia Enhances Security for Nimba County By-Election Amid Past Tensions

The Liberia National Police have heightened security measures for the April 21, 2025, Senatorial By-Election in Nimba County, following previous incidents of electoral violence. Inspector General Gregory Coleman assured citizens of a peaceful electoral process, emphasizing police readiness to maintain order and impartiality. With strategic deployment of personnel, the police aim to protect the integrity of the election and ensure a secure environment for voters.

On April 21, 2025, a significant presence of security forces was deployed across Nimba County for the crucial Senatorial By-Election. The heightened security measures followed incidents in 2023 when disruptions occurred during polling, notably in Beo Longatuo, where disgruntled youth vandalized polling places and absconded with ballot boxes. The Liberia National Police, under Inspector General Gregory Coleman, emphasized their commitment to a peaceful electoral process, assuring citizens that measures had been taken to avert any political violence.

Inspector General Coleman conducted a press conference to reassure the public of the police’s readiness to ensure a tension-free electoral experience. He acknowledged past electoral violence and highlighted ongoing efforts to analyze these incidents to implement corrective strategies. Additionally, he addressed concerns surrounding unauthorized political actors from outside Nimba campaigning during the election, potentially inflating unrest.

Although specific individuals were not named, notable political figures were seen campaigning for Madam Edith Gongloe Weh prior to the election, which raised concerns among local residents about outside interference. Coleman reiterated that all necessary precautions had been established, including a robust deployment of security personnel tasked with ensuring the safety and integrity of polling locations.

The police presence at polling sites aimed to be both extensive and strategic, with designated commanders overseeing various centers. Coleman mentioned that a thorough analysis of previous elections informed their current deployment strategy to efficiently address any unrest. Moreover, he warned potential instigators that law enforcement was aware of plots for disruption and indicated a zero-tolerance policy towards any attempts to breach the peace during the electoral process.

The Inspector General further reinforced the impartial role of the police, asserting that officers would support all candidates equally to foster a fair election atmosphere. He clarified that any officer engaging in political activities would face immediate consequences, emphasizing the police’s role as guardians of democracy rather than political entities. This pledge to uphold law and order represented a shift toward meaningful service delivery and public accountability.

Coleman assured that the electoral infrastructure, including the secure transportation of ballot boxes to designated warehouses, was well-planned to protect citizens and their votes. While he expressed confidence that this election would proceed peacefully, he acknowledged issues faced in prior elections where unarmed security personnel were vulnerable to criminal actions.

In conclusion, the Liberia National Police, led by Inspector General Gregory Coleman, have undertaken extensive security precautions for the Nimba County Senatorial By-Election. Following the lessons learned from past electoral disruptions, the police aim to facilitate a peaceful voting environment while ensuring the protection of all constituents during this electoral process. The commitment to impartiality and public safety underscores the police’s role as protectors of democratic rights and the integrity of elections in Liberia.

Original Source: allafrica.com