On 5 August 2025, national and international partners convened under the High-Level Coordination Platform on Elections to assess preparations for the upcoming Representative By-Election in Buu-Yao, Nimba County Electoral District #5.

The meeting was chaired by Counselor Cora Hare-Konuwa, Deputy Minister of Justice for Codification, and co-chaired by Ms. Christine Umutoni, UN Resident Coordinator, and Ms. Josephine Nkrumah, ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia.

In her opening remarks, Deputy Minister Hare-Konuwa underscored the Platform’s role in fostering collaborative dialogue among electoral stakeholders.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to local and international partners for their steadfast support in strengthening Liberia’s electoral systems and democratic institutions. Your collaboration remains critical as we prepare for the by-election,” the Deputy Minister stated.

She noted that the Government of Liberia remains firmly committed to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and ensuring electoral integrity throughout this process.”

Ms. Umutoni emphasized the significance of the Platform in promoting transparency and joint monitoring.

“This is a good practice, a mechanism for transparency and collaborative oversight. The Nimba County by-election offers another opportunity to reinforce election integrity and public trust in Liberia’s democratic processes,” said Umotoni.

Ambassador Nkrumah expressed confidence in the preparedness of stakeholders and commended their coordinated efforts.

“With support from Joint Security, the leadership of the Ministry of Justice, and committed partners, we are optimistic that Liberia will once again deliver elections that are peaceful, transparent, and inclusive. I commend the NEC Board of Commissioners and staff for their unwavering dedication,” Ambassador Nkrumah noted.

National Elections Commission (NEC) Chairperson Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah provided an update on logistical and voter engagement efforts.

 She confirmed that ballots had already arrived in-country and that civic and voter education activities, launched on 28 July, are ongoing. She also noted that on 4 August, candidates reaffirmed their commitment to the Farmington River Declaration, pledging peaceful participation.

Additionally, the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission has approved the procurement of essential electoral materials.

The High-Level Coordination Platform on Elections continues to serve as a vital mechanism for harmonized and inclusive support throughout Liberia’s electoral cycle. It is convened by its Secretariat, composed of the Ministry of Justice, NEC, and the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), which is co-funded by the European Union, Irish Aid, and the Embassy of Sweden.

Managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women and the Netherlands Institute for Multi-Party Democracy (NIMD), LESP supports national institutions and processes that foster inclusive and accountable democratic governance.