By Fatou Sillah
The leader and Secretary General of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), Mama Kandeh, has called on Gambians to remain vigilant and closely monitor the government’s issuance of national identity cards in the run-up to the 2026 presidential elections.
Speaking to journalists at his residence in Kombo Kitty, Kandeh expressed concern over the government’s reported decision to issue ID cards to Gambians residing in Mauritania and Gabon.
“In this coming election, people should be observant and monitor the process seriously—especially the issuance of ID cards they claim to be giving to Gambians in Mauritania and Gabon,” he said.
Kandeh questioned the fairness and transparency of the process, pointing out that many Gambians at home face lengthy delays in obtaining their ID cards.
“It can take a citizen here three to four months to get an ID card, and the process is so frustrating that some people eventually give up. So what method is the government using to issue ID cards to Gambians abroad within such a short period?” he asked.
The GDC leader further raised concerns about the rationale for issuing ID cards in countries that are not part of ECOWAS, such as Mauritania.
“Why do we have ambassadors in Mauritania? If Gambians have problems there, they should go to the embassy. ID cards will not solve their problems because Mauritania is not part of ECOWAS, which means our national documents, including the ID card, are not recognized there,” Kandeh argued.
He also questioned the government’s motives for extending the issuance process to both Mauritania and Gabon.
“What is the essence of issuing ID cards to Gambians in Mauritania and Gabon? What are you trying to tell us? What is the motive behind this move?” he asked.
Kandeh urged all political parties to take the matter seriously and work together to ensure fairness and transparency ahead of the upcoming elections.
“We have serious concerns about this, and I call on all political parties—whether we form a coalition or not—to act collectively, because at the end of the day, this issue will affect us all,” he concluded.