Members of the 55th Legislature on Capitol Hill, have created 16 new districts. The latest political restructured, has increased the existing number of 73 districts to 89.
The development follows a recommendation from the House’s ‘Special Committee’ to increase the number of electoral districts from 73 to 89.
The proposal, now before Plenary, would introduce 16 additional seats in the 15 counties.
The exercise ensured that no county loses its current representation with at least two districts in River Cess County.
Under the new plan, densely populated counties will gain more number of districts, including Lofa and Nimba counties.
Montserrado County, for example, will increase from 17 to 20 seats, while Nimba County rises from nine to 11 districts. Bong and Lofa counties will each gain two additional seats, reflecting the trends of growth in their respective population. Margibi, Grand Bassa, Grand Gedeh, and Grand Cape Mount counties will each receive one additional seat. Smaller counties such as River Gee, Gbarpolu and Grand Kru are also included in the expansion, while River Cess County will remain unchanged. The Committee’s report attributes the proposed changes to updated population data. Its members argued that the current distribution no longer reflects demographic realities. A key feature of the proposal is the introduction of a tier-based system to guide future districting that would provide the National Elections Commission (NEC) with a clearer and more consistent framework for representation. Supporters say, the reform would address long-standing imbalances, and enhance democratic participation by ensuring more equitable representation across counties. Debate on the proposal is expected to begin shortly, with lawmakers facing a consequential decision that could reshape electoral landscape ahead of future elections.
Below is County-by-County Breakdown (Current vs. Proposed Seats)
Montserrado County—17 to 20 (+3) Nimba County—9 to 11 (+2); Bong County—7 to 9 (+2); Lofa County—5 to 7 (+2); Margibi County—5 to 6 (+1); Grand Bassa County—5 to 6 (+1); Grand Gedeh County—3 to 4 (+1); Grand Cape Mount County—3 to 4 (+1); Maryland County—3 to 4 (+1); Sinoe—County 3 to 4 (+1); Bomi— County 3 to 4 (+1); River Gee—County 2 to 3 (+1); Gbarpolu—County 2 to 3 (+1); Grand Kru—County 2 to 3 (+1); River Cess—County 2 to 2 (no change).