LOGUATUO, Nimba County – As vote counting begins across Nimba County following Tuesday’s crucial senatorial by-election, local officials and residents are raising concerns over low voter turnout and systemic challenges that may have suppressed participation at the polls.
At the center of the conversation is Omasco Tayartou Dormah, township commissioner of Kpanplay Township in the Gbeahle-geh Administrative District. Speaking to journalists at the L Polling Center, Commissioner Dormah attributed the subdued turnout to the lingering effects of voter trucking during the 2023 general elections.
“Most of the people who were trucked into the township in 2023 to vote are not here anymore,” Dormah said. “This time, the candidates who brought them are not contesting. So, many registered voters were not able to return to vote where their cards are located.”
He stressed that voter trucking — the practice of transporting people to register or vote in districts where they do not reside — undermines the integrity of elections and hinders community development.
“When someone who does not understand the needs of the community casts a ballot, and the elected leader is imposed on the local people, the result is a lack of connection and commitment to local development,” he said.
Dormah also noted that civic and voter education ahead of the by-election was insufficient, leading to a high number of invalid votes.
“The awareness was very minimal. One visit from civic educators is not enough. We need consistent education, maybe even using traditional methods and town criers to reach remote areas,” he said.
As concerns about turnout and electoral integrity persist, some residents — especially in underdeveloped areas like Loguatuo near the Liberian-Ivorian border — are voicing deeper frustrations over long-term neglect.
Metrics J. Wleh, a city council worker and tribal representative in Loguatuo, said residents have long felt abandoned by elected officials, including past senators.
“This place is not considered part of Nimba when it comes to development,” Wleh said. “They say we are not part of Liberia. No women’s center, no youth forum, nothing for the children. The incoming senator must not forget Loguatuo.”
Wleh emphasized the urgent need for tangible investments in women and youth empowerment, as well as community infrastructure.
“We need places where the youth can gather, learn, and dream about their future. We’re begging the incoming senator — look our way,” he said.
Despite the logistical and political challenges, residents praised the peaceful conduct of the election. Security was visible and effective, and multiple voters reported feeling safe throughout the process.
Both Commissioner Dormah and local citizens called strongly for peace and acceptance of the results.
“Whether you win or lose, it’s still one Nimba,” Dormah said. “Let’s not be used by politicians to cause confusion. The people have spoken.”
Another resident, Pule, echoed the sentiment.
“We’ve suffered enough. We don’t want to go back to the dark days. Accept the results. Who God chooses, let that be the person,” he said.
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