By Samuel Flomo, Jr.
Former Bong County District #1 representative candidate, Dennis Garsinii, has accused authorities at the National Elections Commission (NEC) of “systemic corruption.” Garsinii alleged that the 2023 general elections were compromised by bribery, mismanagement, and gross negligence. But NEC Director of Communications, Prince Dunbar, did not honor the Garsinii’s claim. Dunbar added: I am not aware of the name, nor am I aware of what he’s talking about. Therefore, I cannot speak to that allegation coming from an individual. What I can do later for The Inprofile newspaper is to connect you to anyone of the most senior commissioners. Garsinii, is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Courage Medical Center. He described the NEC as “a corrupt institution” that has failed the Liberian people and undermined the democratic process. Garsinii told newsmen in Gbarnga, Bong County that electoral workers and networkers were bribed with thousands of U.S. dollars, while candidates were forced to feed and financially support them, a practice he branded as legalized corruption. While Garsinii’s allegation is yet to be substantiated, sources at the Commission have trashed the claim, describing it as an “ill-informed radio talk.” “What happened in 2023 was not a free and fair election. We have evidence of cheating and bribery. Networkers were being paid and still failed to do their jobs. Candidates ended up taking care of the poll workers. If that is not corruption, then what is it, Garsinii charged. He accused the NEC of abandoning its fundamental responsibility of voter education, particularly in rural areas, leaving largely uneducated voters to navigate bulky, and complicated ballots without guidance. Garsinii said this deliberate oversight effectively disenfranchised thousands of citizens and skewed electoral outcomes. “The NEC set voters up to fail. You cannot give complex ballots to people, who were never properly educated on how to vote and then claim the process was credible.” Despite his harsh criticism, Garsinii confirmed he will remain politically active ahead of the 2029 elections, focusing on voter education and civic awareness.
He warned that short-term inducements like rice or cash should never determine the outcome of elections.
Garsinii reaffirmed his commitment to Liberia’s development and democracy, insisting that meaningful reforms in electoral governance, transparency, and human capital investment are essential to progress.