Liberia's electoral process may prove controversial

Significance

The process, which represents the country’s first use of biometric data for an election, was marred by irregularities. Meanwhile, key powerbroker Senator Prince Johnson of Nimba County has decided to back the main opposition Unity Party (UP)'s presidential candidate, former Vice President Joseph Boakai, in the upcoming polls.

Impacts

• Government spending may increase in advance of the elections, putting pressure on the state’s strained fiscal position.
• Political violence may escalate in the coming months as supporters of various parties clash with each another.
• Cost of living concerns may lead to protests as the elections approach.