In a prepared statement this week, the Chairpersons of the National Elections Commission (NIC), Davidetta Browne Lansanah, said the Commission also reports that while voting is progressing well generally across the country, there are a couple of noteworthy challenges, specifically in the South Eastern counties of Sinoe and Rivercess.
She said due to the heavy downpour of rain for the past five days, the Planson River in Sinoe County, which is located on the outskirt of Greenville overflowed its banks and crossed the main road leading to most of the centers in District two of Sinoe County.
Noting, “All efforts by the NEC staff to cross the river from both sides have proven futile so far. This has affected the conduct of polls in at least 11 precincts in District two, Sinoe County. Also, the truck carrying election materials to District one in Sinoe County got stuck in the mud in the Butaw area due to heavy rain and bad road. The Election Magistrate arranged a fleet of motorcycles to convey the materials last night, the 9th of October, but were also challenged due to bad road leading to late start of polls in that area. Due to the situation, the Commission will extend the voting time in those areas”, she told reporters.
Madam Browne noted that in River Cess County, the Timbo River overflowed its banks and the NEC vehicles with election materials were unable to cross at the time. When the water receded, the vehicles carrying election materials arrived late at their destinations, leading to the late start of the polls in those areas. Some of the precincts in River Cess District one, Morweh, opened as late as 11:00 am.
“Member as we approach the closing of polls and begin the counting of votes, I urge all Liberians to remain peaceful and wait for the results because the NEC is committed to ensuring that their votes count just as you cast them”.
She expressed thanks and appreciation to the Liberians who turned out to vote, stressing, “The NEC also thanks the over 30,000 polling staff and the Commission’s technical staff for their sacrifices. The Commission also appreciate the national security apparatus for helping to create the enabling environment for the conduct of the polls. As we approach the close of the polls, the Commission is assured by the Ministry of Justice that the gaps in the deployment of security has claimed their attention and will respond immediately. Many thanks also to all stakeholders for your support.
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