Laxton’s Voter ID Management System brings credible election to Liberia
2.4 Million
Voters Registered
27,192
Records De-Duplicated
2,080
Registration Centers
Laxton’s implementation of biometric technology at Libertador General José de San Martín Airport has set a new standard for efficient, secure, and streamlined airport operations. By significantly improving processing times, enhancing security, and raising customer satisfaction, the project showcases how advanced biometric solutions can transform high-traffic environments. Laxton’s Chameleon 8 tablets have not only met the airport’s immediate needs but have also positioned it as a leader in adopting innovative solutions for modern-day challenges.
Solution: National Census
Region: Uganda
Year: 2024
Traffic Surge Highlights Flaws in Traditional ID Verification
In 2022, passenger traffic at Libertador General José de San Martín Airport surged by 38%. This sudden increase underscored the limitations of traditional ID verification methods, which were too slow and inefficient to handle the growing demand—with passengers expecting quicker service and the added need for privacy—especially for high-profile individuals—the airport sought a solution to enhance efficiency, security, and confidentiality during check-in.
Equal Access For All Eligible Voters
The National Elections Commission (NEC) implemented a biometric voter registration system to ensure an efficient and credible voting process. The goal was to provide equal access for all eligible voters and boost the number of registered voters from the 2.1 million registered in 2017. To enhance the voting process for the 2023 elections, each registered voter received a PVC Voter Identity Card, which served as proof of registration on Election Day. The QR code on the Voter ID Card was used to access the records in the voter system and compare them to the voters’ list.
Preparations Start in December 2022
Laxton’s election management specialists arrived in Liberia in December 2022 to start preparations for the voter registration process. A base of operations was set up in Monrovia to support the National Elections Commission (NEC) throughout the process, addressing any issues that arose. As project lead, Laxton collaborated with its specialist partners to guarantee a successful voter registration drive.
Preparation of thousands of Voter Registration Kits and PVC Card Printers in the warehouse in Monrovia.
Solar panels, photo backdrops, PVC cards and registration consumables are packed in a backpack for easy transportation throughout Liberia.
Robust Backend Infrastructure Elevates Liberia’s Electoral System
Laxton significantly enhanced the backend infrastructure to assist Liberia’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) in their voter registration efforts. We established a complete voter registration system within the NEC’s warehouse. Given the warehouse’s multifunctional use, we faced the challenge of creating a semi-permanent system. Our solution was an adaptable infrastructure design, allowing for a temporary dismantling of the network. This flexibility enabled the space to be used for different activities when not in use for data consolidation.
Advanced Encryption Keeps Data Safe
Laxton focused on strong data security during voter registration, using safety measures like a secure operating system and encryption to limit access to authorised technicians. Data was kept safe with encryption when stored, combined, and transferred, ensuring the final voter lists were reliable.
Training the Operators
The training team delivered practical, hands-on instruction to NEC staff, utilising a range of equipment specifically for this on-site training. This included Biometric Voter Registration Kits, Voter Card Printer Kits, and backpacks. The focus was on training technicians on the skills needed to set up, use and maintain the equipment, while operational trainers were educated on effectively training field operators.
Mass Registration Start on March 20th
The data capture, encryption, and storage software were configured to guarantee the accuracy of the data. After registrations, the captured data was consolidated into a central repository. Then, the de-duplication process was initiated to ensure duplicate entries were flagged for the NEC to adjudicate against their policies, ensuring an accurate and credible voter roll. Laxton ensured the security and accuracy of captured data throughout the registration process.
Seamless Identity Management
The Identity Management Platform is the foundational element of the customisable election modules, encompassing Voter Registration, Voter Verification, Data Consolidation Services, Candidate Management, and Election Management, among other modules. This robust platform enhances the efficiency of data consolidation, record management, and reporting and integrates smoothly with Automated Biometric Identification Systems (ABIS).
Duplicate Entries Flagged
Post-consolidation, the records underwent a rigorous de-duplication process. Through advanced identification strategies based on matching scores (fingerprints/photos), duplicate records were identified and managed, providing substantial benefits to NEC for subsequent elections.
Exhibition Of The Provisional Registration Roll
From June 12th to June 17th, the Exhibition of the Provisional Registration Roll took place. All 2080 Registration Centers across the country were open to allow registrants to review and verify their registration details, request corrections if necessary, and object to including individuals on the Final Registration Roll (FRR). The NEC encouraged the public to participate in this phase to ensure the accuracy and eligibility of the voters’ roll.
Laxton’s Election Management Solution Creates Credible Voter Roll
The Liberia Voter Registration Project celebrated remarkable achievements, with 2,499,338 voter records received after data submission from the 2080 registration centres. Among these, 27,192 records were identified as duplicates, while 529 records were suspected to belong to underage registrants. A total of 2,471,617 records were verified as active registrants. The NEC is dedicated to thoroughly investigating and addressing duplicate and underage cases, ensuring the removal of ineligible registrants from the voters’ roll.
This success in Voter Registration was made possible through collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including local and international partners, national security agencies, and both temporary and permanent staff of the National Electoral Commission.
Laxton’s implementation of an Election Management System for the Liberia Voter Registration Project marked a significant milestone in establishing a transparent and efficient electoral process. The Election Management System was crucial in creating a credible Voters Roll, providing a strong foundation for the 2023 National Elections in Liberia.
Post the registration period, Laxton will deliver 2 years in-country maintenance and support services to NEC.
Joseph Boakai Wins Election
In a significant stride toward a new democratic era, Joseph Boakai emerged victorious in Liberia’s runoff election on November 14th. This election marks a turning point for Liberia. It is an inspiring example to the international community of what can be achieved with determination, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to democracy.
