Boakai’s NEC Pick Faces Senate Test

By Stephen G. Fellajuah

Monrovia, Liberia, April 1, 2026 – The nomination of Mr. Jonathan K. Weedor as Chairman of the National Elections Commission (NEC) has raised eyebrows among opposition groups and sections of the public, who accused the nominee of being a partisan of the ruling Unity Party (UP).

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., on March 30, 2026, nominated Mr. Weedor to serve as Chairman of the National Elections Commission (NEC), following the resignation of Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah.

According to the Executive Mansion, Mr. Weedor brings to the position a wealth of experience in electoral administration, governance, and public service.

He previously served as Commissioner of the National Elections Commission from 2004 to 2020, during which time he held several key oversight responsibilities, including Human Resources, Finance, and Procurement.

He also served as Acting Co-Chairman of the Commission, contributing significantly to the management and credibility of Liberia’s electoral processes.

However, critics allege that Mr. Weedor previously served as head of Unity Party’s War Room and led its 2023 elections strategy. They claimed he publicly declared the party’s victory in the first round based on his own tally.

Opposition figures argue that the President should appoint someone from civil society to head the NEC rather than a perceived partisan. They warn that appointing a staunch UP affiliate like Mr. Weedor ahead of the 2029 elections could undermine the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.

Commenting on the nomination, former Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) lawmaker Acarous Moses Gray accused President Boakai of attempting to plunge Liberia into chaos.

“Let’s see whether the Liberian Senate will protect Liberia from a potential 2029 national calamity, or whether the nomination will be allowed to sail through,” he said.

The opposition has also called on international partners to reject the nomination and suspend support to NEC if Weedor is confirmed.

In addition to his national service, Mr. Weedor has participated in numerous international electoral missions and engagements across Africa, including assignments with electoral bodies in Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria, as well as observation and assessment missions under the auspices of the African Union and ECOWAS.

Pending confirmation by the Liberian Senate, President Boakai has directed that Mr. Weedor serve as the Commission’s Acting Chairman until the Senate reconvenes from its current recess.

The President has expressed full confidence in Mr. Weedor’s competence, integrity, and professionalism, and expects that under his leadership, the National Elections Commission will continue to uphold the principles of transparency, independence, and credibility in the conduct of elections in Liberia.