LOWER NIMBA – As voting continues in the much-anticipated Nimba County senatorial by-election, voters across parts of the county are describing the process as smooth, quick and highly organized.
From Graie to Kpaytuo and Tapitta, residents who turned out early at polling places reported minimal stress and short lines, with several first-time and elderly voters praising the ease of the process. Polls opened promptly at 8 a.m. and will remain open until 6 p.m.
“I feel fine by voting and also want to call on everyone, especially the young people, to go and vote,” said Nelson Wehyee, the second voter at his polling place in Kpatuo, who cast his ballot at 8:07 a.m. “The process is very easy.”
In the early hours of the day, turnout remained modest across voting precincts in Districts 1, 6, 7, 8 and 9, particularly along the Ganta-Tapitta corridor. Still, voters arrived in steady streams, many expressing pride in participating in the democratic process.
Worlehgbay Wongbay, a woman in her early 60s who voted at the Kpaytuo Public School polling center, said the current election is unfolding more smoothly than past ones.
“The process is going on fine, more than other elections,” she said. “That is why I am calling on other women to come out and vote as soon as possible.”
She added that women’s participation in elections helps shape the future of their families and communities.
Eunice Gaye, a first-time voter, said she felt proud to finally exercise her right. Although she registered in 2023, she did not participate in the general elections that year.
“I feel happy to vote for the first time,” she said with a smile. “I think it’s a good thing to vote for the candidate of your choice.”
In Graie Township, elder Alex Varmie emerged from the Varmie Memorial Public School polling station with a broad smile.
“The process is very genuine and very good,” he said. “Even at my age, I believe voting is an obligation because it gives us the chance to pick people who will work in our interest.”
Reuben Saywah, who voted around 10 a.m., echoed those sentiments.
“I want to encourage everyone to come out and vote,” he said. “The process is very easy and does not take much time because you are only voting for one person, unlike other elections.”
Well-Prepared Staff, Visible Security
Election workers appeared well-prepared and organized, managing the flow of voters efficiently and answering questions with clarity. Each station observed by The Liberian Investigator was fully staffed, and no major delays or disruptions were reported as of mid-morning.
Security has also been tight yet unobtrusive. Local police officers and designated poll watchers are stationed at all polling centers, providing a reassuring presence while allowing the process to unfold without intimidation or interference.
Positive Atmosphere Despite Early Low Turnout
While voter turnout remained low in the early hours, the mood across polling centers was generally positive. Many voters voiced appreciation for the National Elections Commission’s organization and urged their fellow citizens to take advantage of the opportunity to vote before the 6 p.m. close of polls.
More updates will follow as voting continues across Nimba County.
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