By Makutu Manneh
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, officially commenced a nationwide supplementary voter registration exercise in preparation for the country’s upcoming elections.
The 44-day exercise, which will run until 21 May 2026, is designed to enable all eligible Gambians—particularly those who have recently attained the age of 18—to register and be included in the national voters’ roll.
IEC Chairman Joseph Colley described the initiative as a vital component of the electoral process and a key precursor to the forthcoming presidential and parliamentary elections. He disclosed that 100 registration teams have been deployed across 730 registration centers nationwide to ensure broad access and efficiency.
“The registration process will be conducted in strict compliance with the relevant provisions of the law. This is critical to uphold the international credibility of the process and build trust and confidence,” he stated.
During a visit to the Bakau Cape Point registration center on 9 April, Kerr Fatou engaged with local residents, including Mama Camara, who had accompanied her grandchildren to register. She underscored the importance of youth participation in national development, noting that civic influence is exercised through the ballot.
“Everybody without a voter’s card should come out to get registered because this is your voice,” Ms. Camara added.
Omar Drammeh, a youth resident of Bakau, also emphasized the critical role young people play in shaping the country’s future. He urged his peers and other eligible citizens to participate in the registration process, stressing that governance outcomes affect all citizens.
Political party representatives, including Kemo Bojang of the Unite Movement for Change (UMC) and Mamadi Kurang of the United Democratic Party (UDP), were present at the centre. Both commended the smooth conduct of the exercise and encouraged eligible Gambians to register.
Saidy S. Khan, an IEC registration officer stationed at Pipeline Mosque, confirmed that the process has so far proceeded without incident and assured the public of the Commission’s commitment to facilitating a transparent and accessible registration exercise.
The IEC has scheduled the presidential election for 5 December 2026, followed by National Assembly elections on 10 April 2027, and local government elections in May and June 2027.
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