Liberia: Hearing into Lofa’s Senate Electoral Malpractices Case Begins

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Liberia: Hearing into Lofa's Senate Electoral Malpractices Case Begins
Liberia: Hearing into Lofa's Senate Electoral Malpractices Case Begins

Africa-Press – Liberia. The National Elections Commission (NEC) has begun hearings into the alleged electoral malpractices in Lofa’s Senate election.

The Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) had officially lodged a complaint with the NEC, alleging multiple irregularities discovered during the Senate election that contributed to their Senatorial candidate Moses Y. Kollie’s defeat.

The ruling party is now seeking a vote recount across nine out of 424 polling places in Lofa County.

In a case that has garnered substantial attention, defense lawyers’ request for dismissal was denied on October 23. The NEC, responsible for overseeing elections in Liberia, is taking this matter seriously and is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.

During the hearings, evidence will be presented, and witnesses will testify to shed light on the alleged electoral malpractices. The NEC aims to thoroughly investigate the matter and make an informed decision based on the facts presented.

In a dramatic turn of events on Monday, lawyers representing the defendant in the case “CDC VS NEC, Momo Cyrus” made a bold move during Monday’s hearing by filing a motion, urging the hearing officers to dismiss the entire matter on two crucial grounds.

Firstly, they argued that the case was filed well ahead of the designated timeline, rendering it untimely. Secondly, they claimed that the case lacked any substantial merits warranting consideration.

Prosecuting lawyers representing the CDC responded to these claims with strong counterarguments, asserting that the case has significant merits and was filed promptly. They contend that the case has substantial grounds and should not be dismissed.

Following the arguments, the motion to dismiss was later denied by the hearing officers. This decision allows the CDC to proceed with their case, as they are now required to present evidence to support their claims. According to the ruling, the prosecuting lawyers are required to provide their witnesses on October 24, at 2:00 pm at the hearing offices of the National Elections Commission Headquarters in Monrovia. This decision marks a significant milestone in the ongoing legal proceedings that will determine who receives certification as Senator of Lofa County.

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