Africa-Press – Liberia. Morlu argues that the appointment of Weedor has instead triggered widespread concern and debate among citizens and political stakeholders, thereby weakening trust in the electoral body
The Chairman of the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day, Mulbah K. Morlu Jr., has called for the immediate withdrawal of the appointment of Jonathan K. Weedor as Acting Chairman of the National Elections Commission (NEC).
In a statement issued on April 1, 2026 in Monrovia, Morlu said the appointment made by President Joseph Boakai poses serious risks to the credibility, legitimacy, and acceptance of future elections, including the 2029 general and presidential polls.
Morlu emphasized that public trust remains the foundation of any democratic electoral system. He stated that elections must not only be conducted in a free and fair manner, but must also be perceived as credible by the public.
According to him, any individual appointed to lead the NEC must demonstrate neutrality, independence, and the ability to inspire confidence across the political spectrum.
He argued that the appointment of Weedor has instead triggered widespread concern and debate among citizens and political stakeholders, thereby weakening trust in the electoral body.
Morlu warned that such concerns, if left unaddressed, could erode confidence in the outcomes of future elections.
The STAND chairman further alleged that the appointment presents a clear conflict of interest. He pointed to widely circulated public claims suggesting that Weedor had previously been involved in activities linked to President Boakai’s electoral process.
Morlu said that regardless of the legal context, such associations create a perception of bias that is incompatible with the responsibilities of leading an independent elections commission.
“In democratic governance, perception is as important as process,” Morlu stated, stressing that the Elections Commission must be seen by all stakeholders as impartial and free from political influence.
Morlu emphasized that public trust remains the foundation of any democratic electoral system. He stated that elections must not only be conducted in a free and fair manner, but must also be perceived as credible by the public
He cautioned that maintaining Weedor in the role could lead to doubts about the integrity of future elections even before they are conducted. According to him, the perception that electoral outcomes could be influenced or predetermined is dangerous and could trigger disputes, unrest, and broader instability.
Morlu also acknowledged that the President has the constitutional authority to appoint officials to the NEC. However, he argued that such authority must be exercised in a manner that strengthens democratic institutions and reinforces public confidence.
He warned that any decision that raises questions about neutrality or political alignment risks damaging Liberia’s democratic credibility and national stability. He urged that the country’s long-term democratic integrity should take precedence over political considerations.
The STAND chairman called on President Boakai to act in what he described as the supreme interest of the nation by withdrawing the appointment. He said such a move would help protect Liberia’s democracy, preserve public trust, and safeguard peace and stability.
Morlu stressed that the future of Liberia’s democracy depends on the confidence of its citizens, adding that this trust must be protected and upheld without compromise.
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