MONROVIA — The Chairperson of Liberia’s National Elections Commission, Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, has formally resigned from her position, ending nearly six years at the helm of the country’s electoral body.
In a letter addressed to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, dated March 3, 2026, Browne-Lansanah informed the President of her decision to step down as NEC chairperson effective March 15, 2026, citing the need to rest after more than a decade of service at the Commission.
“I hereby inform you of my decision to step away from my role as Chairperson of the National Elections Commission of Liberia, effective March 15, 2026,” she wrote in the letter.
She explained that the decision followed consultations with her family and was intended to allow her time to rest after serving over 12 years at the electoral institution—first as a commissioner and later as chairperson.
“This decision was reached after consultation with my family on the need to afford myself the time needed to rest, after more than twelve years of serving as a commissioner and then chairperson of the Commission,” she stated.
Leaving Office Before End of Tenure
Browne-Lansanah’s resignation comes with about a year remaining in her seven-year tenure, which was expected to run until 2027. She was appointed NEC chairperson on April 10, 2020, by former President George Manneh Weah.
The outgoing elections chief said serving Liberia’s democracy had been a privilege and pledged to support a smooth transition once her successor is appointed.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve in these roles, contributing to the democratic processes that are vital to the future of our nation,” she wrote.
She added that she remains committed to Liberia’s progress and will continue to support the country’s development.
“I remain deeply committed to the well-being of Liberia and will continue to work in its best interests,” the letter noted.
Browne-Lansanah also expressed appreciation to staff of the NEC, political parties, international partners, and other stakeholders she worked with during her time at the Commission.
“I will forever cherish the opportunity to have worked with the dedicated staff and colleagues of the National Elections Commission, the political parties, domestic and international partners, and other electoral stakeholders,” she said.
A Career Marked by Electoral Milestones
The National Elections Commission, created under Liberia’s 1986 Constitution, is responsible for organizing and supervising national elections and referendums in the country.
During Browne-Lansanah’s leadership, the NEC oversaw several major electoral events, including the 2023 General Elections, which resulted in the peaceful transfer of power from former President George Manneh Weah to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
She also played a prominent role in regional electoral diplomacy, serving in leadership roles within the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions, where she participated in election observation and peer review missions across West Africa.
Controversies and Political Tensions
Despite her achievements, Browne-Lansanah’s tenure was not without controversy.
At various points during her leadership, opposition parties and political actors raised concerns about the NEC’s handling of electoral disputes, voter registration processes, and the management of vote tabulation during elections.
In 2024, President Boakai temporarily suspended Browne-Lansanah from office over allegations related to the administration of electoral processes, though the suspension was later lifted and she resumed her duties.
The suspension sparked political debate in Liberia, with some observers arguing it threatened the independence of the electoral body, while others said it reflected legitimate concerns about accountability within the Commission.
Looking Ahead
In her resignation letter, Browne-Lansanah said she looks forward to seeing Liberia continue to grow and develop.
“I look forward to seeing the progress and growth of Liberia as we all work towards a brighter future,” she wrote.
Her departure leaves the leadership of the NEC at a crucial time as Liberia prepares for upcoming electoral activities, including possible by-elections and others.
The Liberian government is expected to appoint a new chairperson in accordance with constitutional procedures, which require the President to nominate a candidate subject to confirmation by the Liberian Senate.
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