Liberia: Defeated District #12 Rep. Candidate Withdraws Electoral Disputed Case

Prof. Richmond S. Anderson, a defeated candidate in the 2023 Montserrado County District #12 Representative election, has withdrawn his case at the National Elections Commission (NEC), paving the way for the announced winner of the district seat, Jerry K. Yogboh, to prepare for his official certification today.

The withdrawal coincides with the expected official certification of all the winners of the 2023 presidential and legislative elections on Friday, December 8. Anderson stated that his decision to withdraw reflects his understanding of the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving meaningful development.

He believes that by not prolonging the dispute, he is signaling his willingness to work with the elected representative and other stakeholders to address pressing issues within Montserrado County District #12.

It is worth noting that Anderson originally filed a complaint with the NEC, expressing dissatisfaction with the outcome of the election results in the district. He also called for a recount in the district. However, Anderson’s withdrawal is now in the interest of peace, unity, stability, and loyalty within the district, and he fully supports the NEC's decision.

In addition to the withdrawal, the former lawmaker has warmly welcomed and accepted Jerry K. Yogboh as the next Representative of District #12. Anderson emphasized that his decision was influenced by appeals from the religious community and stakeholders in the district.

“Today, I have called you to let the world know that, based on an appeal from the religious community, some stakeholders in District #12 have withdrawn my case from the National Elections Commission. This decision was coupled with the decision rendered on Wednesday, December 6, by the NEC Committee, informing us that we don't have a case. We have gone through a legal tussle or hearing for about a month plus two weeks,” Anderson said at a press conference held on Thursday. “There were many irregularities and discrepancies during the electoral process that compromised its fairness and integrity, but we have decided to let it go.”

The former lawmaker noted that he no longer intends to pursue further legal challenges or take the matter to the Board of Commissioners or the Supreme Court, as doing so might hinder peace and progress in the district.

He called upon his legal team to withdraw any further legal challenges or to hereby go to the Board of Commissioners or the Supreme Court.

“I have deemed it necessary to forget about the legal tussle. I have other legal remedies to protest or appeal to the Board of Commissioners, if not to the Supreme Court. However, for the sake of peace and the interest of District #12, I will not hold the district hostage,” Anderson said. “I must listen to wise people. So, I hereby withdraw or forget about any further action regarding the challenge or decision made by NEC.”

Anderson expressed his gratitude to the people of District #12, including supporters, financiers, and the hardworking members of Team Anderson, for their patience, resilience, and unwavering support throughout the election and subsequent legal proceedings.

He also stated that he is open to serving as a consultant for Representative-elect Yogboh if requested, for the benefit of the district and Liberia. Additionally, Anderson conveyed his congratulations to Yogboh on his election by the people of District #12 and encouraged him to continue leading the district.

He called upon the residents to support Yogboh in his endeavors and to prioritize the interests of District #12 above any lingering disputes.