By James T. Brooks
MONROVIA – The National Elections Commission (NEC) headquarters in Monrovia was locked down by commercial court sheriffs on Tuesday after the electoral body failed to pay a court-ordered debt of US$171,105 to M-Tosh Prints Media, Inc.
The writ of execution, issued on August 12 and signed by Associate Judge Chan-Chan A. Paegar, authorized sheriffs to seize and sell the NEC’s assets to satisfy the debt. The order further stipulated that if sufficient assets are not found, the Commission’s Executive Chairperson, Mrs. Davidetta Browne Lansanah, and other commissioners must be brought before the court.
The financial dispute stems from a long-standing contractual agreement in which M-Tosh Prints Media, Inc. sued the NEC for unpaid services. On June 3, the Commercial Court ruled in favor of the company, instructing the NEC to settle the arrears. A separate directive on June 11, 2025, had ordered the Liberia Bank for Development and Investment (LBDI) to open an escrow account to facilitate the payment, but no funds were ever deposited.
The dramatic enforcement action has effectively paralyzed the NEC’s headquarters, raising serious concerns about the Commission’s financial credibility and its ability to fulfill its critical electoral obligations. As the central body responsible for managing and overseeing elections, the NEC’s functions are essential to Liberia’s democratic process. The shutdown comes at a crucial time, disrupting daily operations and potentially impacting preparations for future polls.
This incident also brings into question the financial management and accountability of one of Liberia’s most important public institutions. The NEC’s inability to settle a court-ordered debt has not only led to the physical closure of its office but also risks undermining public confidence in its leadership and competence. The situation highlights deep-seated issues with fiscal oversight and raises the possibility of similar legal actions against other government entities.