The New Dawn (Monrovia)
E. J. Nathaniel Daygbor
30 November 2011
Liberia’s electoral process came to a final close Monday with the National Elections Commission or NEC, certificating winners of the polls, including President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and her running mate Vice President Joseph Boakai along with senators and representatives-elect.
Speaking at the ceremony attended by political party leaders, local and international partners, members of the diplomatic corps and well wishers, the Acting Chairperson of NEC, Madam Elizabeth Nelson, described the conduct of the elections as a challenging task.
She expressed thanks and appreciation to everyone, who contributed to the successful holding of the October 11, 2011 Legislative and Presidential Elections, saying “Without the support from our partners, the United States Government, European Union, Nigeria and the Liberian Government, the dream of election won’t have been realized.”
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said her re-election is a high honor received from the Liberian people, and noted that the second term given her by the people is a clear indication that Liberians have confidence in her leadership. She promised to use her second term to prioritize youth empowerment and national unity.
The President, who is to be inaugurated on January 16, 2012, said there is so much work ahead and that the collective support of all Liberians is needed in moving the country forward.
She called on opposition political parties, civil society organizations other partners to constructively engage her government other than resorting to unconstitutional channels, including demonstration.
President Sirleaf also called on both representatives and senators to work together collectively in the interest of Liberia, saying “It is time everyone, including our lawmakers play their part by fully cooperating with the Executive branch in passage of bills that meet the standard of the country’s investment and constitution.”
Commenting, Senator Armah Jallah of Gbarpolu County and Representative Gabriel Smith of Grand Bassa County both called for collective efforts in moving the country forward.
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