NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The National Election Commission (NEC) of Liberia announced that the country’s Special Senatorial Elections would be held on Saturday, December 20, 2014 after being delayed twice this year.
The constitutionally mandated date was October 14 but the Ebola crisis forced Liberia to postpone voting at that time. It was rescheduled to occur on December 16 but continued concern of Ebola again forced a postponement. However, new cases of Ebola have dropped dramatically in recent weeks and officials are less concerned about the threat as they were earlier this year.
NEC chairman, Jerome Korkoya said it is imperative that elections are held by the end of the year to avoid possible constitutional issues in January when newly elected senators and representatives are formally seated.
Jones N. Williams, the founder of the New Liberia Foundation is pleased that the elections will go forward this year. While he is not supporting any one candidate, Mr. Williams is calling for a calm and peaceful process for these elections saying violence and chaos is not indicative of democracy.
Mr. Williams commented, “The world will be watching Liberia during this crucial exercise of democracy and our actions will determine how the world continues to judge us. We must be strong but peaceful.”
The New Liberia Foundation is raising awareness through its website and working with partners and advisors to get help to the people of Liberia. Further information of the programs the Foundation is sponsoring can be found here.