Department Spokesperson Victoria Nuland today said the United States is deeply disappointed by the decision of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) to boycott Liberia’s presidential run-off election on November 8.
Ms. Nuland stated that the CDC’s charge that the first-round election was fraudulent is unsubstantiated. She pointed out that as evidenced by international and domestic observers, Liberia’s October 11 first-round presidential and legislative elections were fair, free and transparent.
“We are supportive of moving forward with the November 8 election as called for by the National Elections Commission. Participation in elections is a fundamental part of democracy. We commend all Liberians for their peaceful participation in the elections, and encourage all Liberians to exercise their political voice and vote on November 8.” -Ms. Nuland
She stressed that the United States commends the leadership of ECOWAS, notes the important contributions of UNMIL in promoting security during the electoral period, for working with all sides to protect the integrity of Liberia’s democracy. She noted that the international community, including the United States, will again send observers to monitor the election process. She stressed resorting to violence is unacceptable.
