SANNIQUELLIE, NIMBA COUNTY, LIBERIA – The National Elections Commission (NEC) has officially declared Representative Samuel Gongben Kogar of the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) as the winner of the Nimba County Senatorial By-election, concluding one of the region’s most closely watched races in recent memory.
The announcement was made by NEC Chairperson Davidetta Browne Lansanah on Thursday in Sanniquellie City. According to the final results, Kogar secured 62,136 votes, amounting to 52.08% of the 119,302 valid votes cast across 736 polling places throughout Nimba County.
Kogar’s closest contender, Independent Candidate Edith Lianue Gongloe-Weh, obtained 40,506 votes, representing 33.95% of the total. The outcome underscores a clear mandate for the MDR candidate, who will now make the transition from the House of Representatives to the Liberian Senate.
The NEC’s final declaration brings an end to a spirited campaign and a highly anticipated electoral process that captivated public attention in Nimba and beyond. Kogar’s victory is seen as a defining moment in the county’s political landscape, especially as he prepares to assume a more prominent legislative role on Capitol Hill.
Prior to the official announcement, preliminary results already indicated a strong lead for Kogar. With tallies from 682 of 736 polling centers, he had amassed 56,706 votes, or 51.43%, while Gongloe-Weh trailed with 38,454 votes, or 34.87%.
In a gracious concession issued Thursday, Gongloe-Weh acknowledged the final outcome and congratulated Kogar on his electoral triumph. “I extend my sincere congratulations to Hon. Samuel Kogar on his election as Senator of Nimba County,” she said. “The people have spoken, and as a democrat, I respect their decision.”
She also thanked her campaign team, supporters, and the people of Nimba for their unwavering commitment and support throughout the electoral period. Gongloe-Weh pledged to remain engaged in public life, advocating for accountability, development, and good governance.
