PHOTO: Two polling stations in Gbarnga
BY J. Peter S. Dennis, Contributing Reporter
Cell #: 0888958945/0770177125
Citizens of four districts in four counties on Tuesday toted to electing their representatives to fill the void created by the elections of their sitting representatives in the December 2020 Special Senatorial elections.
NEC cleared a total of 33 candidates to contest the four vacant district slots in district#1 in Grand Gedeh County, district#1 in Nimba County, district#2 in Bong County and District#1 in Bomi County. Out of the 33 candidates, there are only three females in the November 16, 2021 polls.
These by-elections were triggered by the election sitting representatives from each of those districts at the Senate.
The former representatives who are now Senators are: Emmanuel Zoe Pennue of district#1 in Grand Gedeh County, Jeremiah Koon of district#1 in Nimba County, Prince Kermue Moye of district#2 in Bong County and Edwin Melvin Snowe of District#1 in Bomi County since December of 2020.
Thousands of electorates from these districts queued as early as 6AM to exercise their franchise at 8AM, per statutory mandate.
Despite the presence of state security apparatus at these polling places, there has been no reported sign of violence, although it’s too early as electorates are seen heading to their respective precincts to cast their ballots.
From what appears to be a poor turn-out at some polling places in Bong County, electorates are having what you call “free entry” due to the absence of much voters at these precincts; although it’s yet early to preempt. co
Some of the electorates appreciated the process for its clariy, and want them to exercise their franchise.
“I went in the room to vote peacefully. I did not see anything difficult or strange. For the turnout, it’s still soon. Too many people are still waiting for late hours. I will just tell me to come and vote for their candidates,” Eve Daniels, one of the electorates and a student at the Bong County Technical College said.
Official counting are expected to commence when the process officially closes by 6PM.
Per statue, only the National Elections Commission is charged with the responsibility to announce official result.
Meanwhie, the president of Liberia, Dr. George Manneh Weah has declared today, November 16, 2021 as a National Holiday in the four counties to be observed.
The proclamation instructed that all public and private place including schools are expected to be closed from 6Am to 6Pm.
More details are expected subsequently.