–Chairperson Weedor Underscores Importance of Strategic Communication in Strengthening Public Trust and Electoral Transparency
BUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County – The National Elections Commission (NEC) has launched the second phase of regional consultations on its draft Communications Strategy, Policy, and Protocol, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional communication and improve public engagement across Liberia.
The three-day consultation, which commenced in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, on June 17, is being led by NEC Chairperson Jonathan K. Weedor and brings together 27 participants, including NEC magistrates from eight counties, community radio managers, media practitioners, and representatives of leading civil society organizations.
Among the participating institutions are the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), the Female Journalists Association of Liberia (FeJAL), and the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP).
The forum is focused on reviewing and validating draft policy documents that will guide the Commission’s communication and stakeholder engagement efforts before, during, and after elections.
Weedor Stresses Need for Continuous Public Engagement
Speaking at the opening of the consultation, Chairperson Weedor emphasized that the work of the National Elections Commission extends far beyond election day and requires sustained public awareness throughout the electoral cycle.
According to him, many Liberians remain unaware of the Commission’s year-round activities because of limited public information and engagement.
“There are many activities that take place before and after elections, yet due to limited public information, some citizens believe the Commission exists only during elections,” Weedor said. “We must work more closely with the media and civil society to ensure that the public is consistently informed about our work at every stage of the electoral cycle.”
He described the consultation as both timely and essential, noting that effective communication is critical to strengthening transparency, building public confidence, and advancing democratic governance.
Public Information a Priority
The NEC Chairperson reiterated the Commission’s commitment to expanding access to information and institutionalizing continuous civic and voter education programs across the country.
He stressed that the Commission’s responsibilities go beyond organizing elections and include educating citizens about democratic processes and electoral participation.
“Public information should be a cardinal priority,” Weedor said. “We rely on the media and civil society to reach every corner of Liberia.”
The NEC boss also commended the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) for its continued partnership and support to Liberia’s democratic development, describing the initiative as a reliable ally in strengthening electoral institutions.
Stakeholder Input to Shape Final Policy
According to Weedor, recommendations emerging from the regional consultations will play a key role in finalizing the NEC Communications Strategy, Policy, and Protocol.
The framework is expected to provide a more coordinated and effective approach to stakeholder engagement, public outreach, information dissemination, and institutional communication nationwide.
The consultation serves as a platform for dialogue between the Commission, media institutions, civil society organizations, and other electoral stakeholders on ways to improve transparency and public trust in the electoral process.
Development Partners Reaffirm Support
The consultations are being supported through the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), which is managed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), and the NEC.
The initiative is funded by the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.
Speaking on behalf of LESP, Communications Specialist Mambu James Kpargoi reaffirmed the project’s commitment to supporting the NEC in building a robust and sustainable communication system capable of promoting transparency, combating misinformation, and strengthening public confidence in electoral institutions.
Media Organizations Welcome Initiative
Media stakeholders attending the consultation welcomed the initiative and emphasized the critical role of independent journalism in supporting credible electoral processes.
Speaking on behalf of the Press Union of Liberia, PUL President Julius Kanubah highlighted the media’s responsibility in strengthening the credibility of electoral institutions through accurate and responsible reporting.
Meanwhile, Varnetta Johnson Freeman of FeJAL stressed the importance of balanced, timely, and factual reporting in promoting peaceful, inclusive, and transparent elections.
Building on Earlier Consultations
The Buchanan meeting follows an earlier regional consultation held in Ganta, Nimba County, as the Commission continues to gather stakeholder input from across the country.
The NEC says the ongoing consultations form part of broader efforts to modernize its communication systems, improve voter engagement, and strengthen public understanding of electoral processes.
Through the Liberia Electoral Support Project and other partnerships, the Commission continues to advance initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive, transparent, and accountable democratic governance in Liberia.
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