Grand Bassa County—The National Elections Commission (NEC) Board of Commissioners has conducted a four—day annual retreat aimed at reflecting, recalibrating, and strengthening their collective purpose.
The retreat, which ran from February 10–14, 2026, was graced by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP)-Liberia Resident Representative, Aliou Mamadou Dia.
The Commissioners discussions were focused several topics, including ethical leadership, institutional reforms, and the kind of teamwork required to safeguard electoral integrity.
Speaking at the event, UNDP-Liberia Resident Representative, Aliou Mamadou Dia, message was rooted in lived experience, humility, and leadership.
A Moment of Reflection, A Message of Unity
Mr. Dia shared his personal experience, his journey as a former presidential candidate in Senegal, and his years working alongside electoral institutions across Africa.
“Strong electoral institutions are the backbone of democracy, unity, integrity, and professionalism—this is how public trust is earned,” Dia noted
According to a release, in that moment, the room shifted. It wasn’t just a retreat anymore—it became a collective reminder that Liberia’s democratic stability depends not only on laws and systems, but on people committed to working together.
Why This Visit Matters
The release stressed that Liberia is at a pivotal moment in consolidating its democratic gains—And institutions like NEC sit at the heart of this progress. It noted that Mr. Dia’s visit wasn’t ceremonial, but reaffirmation of partnership and shared responsibility.
Mr. Dia applauded the NEC for continually striving to deliver credible, transparent elections, efforts that have positioned Liberia as a growing democratic leader on the global stage.
“UNDP is here for the long haul. Through the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), UNDP will continue strengthening systems, advancing reforms, and building the capacities that keep elections free, peaceful, and trusted,” Mr. Dia stated.
Mr. Dia also emphasized something often overlooked. Disagreements happen and
Institutions are made of people, after all, but leadership isn’t about avoiding conflict—it’s about rising above it.
His words: “Presenting a united front is essential for public trust and national development.simple truth, delivered at exactly the right moment.”
For her part, the National Elections Commission (NEC) Co-Chair, Teplah Reeves, speaking on behalf of the Commission, expressed deep appreciation for UNDP’s partnership, adding that it is a relationship built not just on funding and technical support, but on shared values.
She reaffirmed NEC’s commitment to a Liberia where every election reflects the true will of the people, where processes are transparent, and where democracy remains peaceful and strong.
According to the release, NEC Board Retreat was focused on several topics, including reviewing governance and policy frameworks, strengthening collaboration and mutual respect—and enhancing ethical leadership and decision-making.
Others topics included on addressing internal governance challenges, aligning strategies for ongoing electoral reform(in other words—it’s about building the kind of institution that Liberia’s democracy deserves).
A Quiet Visit with a Powerful Impact
“Sometimes leadership isn’t about big speeches or major announcements. Sometimes it’s about showing up, listening, sharing wisdom, reaffirming trust, and reminding people of the purpose behind the work.” The release stated.
The statement added: “That’s exactly what happened in Buchanan. As Liberia continues its democratic journey, moments like these—moments of unity, reflection, and partnership—will be the ones that keep the country moving forward.”
