Monrovia, Liberia – March- 1, 2025: The National Elections Commission (NEC) has announced strict financial and procedural standards for candidates in the upcoming 2025 Nimba County Senatorial By-Election, placing heavier burdens on independent candidates.

According to Section 6.1.6 of the NEC guidelines, independent candidates must demonstrate a minimum bank balance of US$10,000.00 or its equivalent in Liberian Dollars, alongside an insurance policy valued at no less than US$100,000.00 or the equivalent in Liberian Dollars. Political entities or coalitions supporting candidates are also required to meet these financial benchmarks.

All candidates, including independents, must submit a non-refundable application fee of $750.00, as stipulated in Section 9.1. Any candidate failing to amend issues in their nomination papers by the March 14, 2025, deadline will be disqualified.

Eligibility and Verification Process

Candidates must be Liberian citizens who are at least 30 years old, have lived in Nimba County for a minimum of one year prior to the election, and are regular taxpayers (Sections 6.1.1–6.1.4). The NEC will thoroughly scrutinize all applications, potentially holding hearings, and will publish the list of approved candidates on its website (Sections 10.2, 10.5).

Appeals and Campaign Regulations

Candidates who are rejected can appeal to the Supreme Court within 48 hours of the NEC’s decision. Simultaneous campaigning in overlapping areas is prohibited, and all campaign activities must end 48 hours before Election Day (Section 11.3).

Concerns from Critics

While the NEC defends these regulations as a means to ensure “qualified and serious candidates,” critics argue that the financial requirements may disadvantage grassroots competitors. “These criteria threaten to exclude capable individuals lacking financial resources,” commented a local civil society representative.

The new regulations took effect immediately upon publication and are specifically applicable to the Nimba County election.