Liberia’s Nimba County By-Election: Security Measures to Prevent Disruption
Liberia’s Nimba County held a critical senatorial by-election under heightened security to prevent disruptions. The Liberia National Police, led by Inspector General Gregory Coleman, implemented measures to ensure a peaceful voting process following previous incidents of violence. Significant police presence was assured, with strategies focusing on maintaining order at polling places while upholding democratic integrity.
In Liberia, a significant senatorial by-election in Nimba was conducted under a heightened security presence. The Liberia National Police (LNP), led by Inspector General Gregory Coleman, was determined to prevent any disruptions similar to the ballot box incident in Beo Longatuo district. Coleman assured citizens of a peaceful electoral process and stated, “The police will ensure there wouldn’t be any political violence or disruption like what happened in Beo Longatuo in 2023.”
The Inspector General emphasized the police’s commitment to preventing any intimidation, stating, “We have been working hard, looking at what went wrong, so have taken measures to ensure the go on without any fear of intimidation.” Coleman noted the presence of individuals from outside Nimba who could pose threats during the election and reassured that mechanisms were in place to counteract any attempts to disrupt the process.
Coleman also highlighted the involvement of certain politically active individuals from other counties in the campaign, raising concerns among residents. He mentioned lessons learned from past elections have shaped their strategies. A substantial deployment of security personnel was secured to maintain order at 681 polling locations across the county, indicating a strategic rather than symbolic presence.
“This is one of the most informed deployments we’ve had,” Coleman stated, as he confirmed that tactical commanders would monitor multiple polling centers, especially in unrest-prone areas. He warned potential troublemakers, saying, “We know your plans. Let me be clear, if you attempt to carry them out, you will feel us.” Coleman assured citizens of the police’s fairness, declaring, “We’re not here as warriors but as guardians of democracy.”
He noted that any police officer caught engaging in political activities would face immediate disciplinary action. Coleman responded to claims of political bias in the police force, highlighting improvements in service delivery and commitment to public safety. “For too long, ‘serve and protect’ was just a slogan. Now, service has come alive,” he explained.
The LNP has assured that all ballot boxes will be securely moved post-election, creating confidence among voters. Coleman concluded by assuring that the election would be peaceful and encouraged citizens to vote without fear. However, past instances where unarmed security officers were compromised remain a concern for election integrity and safety.
The senatorial by-election in Nimba, Liberia, witnessed significant police presence aimed at ensuring a peaceful electoral process. Inspector General Gregory Coleman underscored the need for security amidst fears of violence, drawing lessons from previous elections. With a well-informed deployment of personnel and a commitment to impartiality, the LNP assured voters that they could participate in the electoral process safely, despite lingering concerns about previous vulnerabilities in securing polling places.
Original Source: allafrica.com
