By: Modou Touray
H.R.H. Prince Ebrahim Sanyang has raised concerns over the credibility and transparency of The Gambia’s electoral process following reports that the nomination of National Democratic Party (NDP) leader, Hon. Kebba Madi Bojang, has been rejected by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
In a statement issued on Friday, Sanyang described the development as another source of concern regarding the fairness of the electoral process ahead of the December 5 presidential election.
He recalled his decision not to submit his own presidential nomination papers, citing unresolved questions surrounding his voter registration record, which he said the IEC had failed to clarify.
Sanyang explained that proceeding with his nomination without resolving the issue would have meant accepting uncertainty over his eligibility to participate in the electoral contest.
He also referred to concerns raised during a press conference held at Kairaba Beach Hotel on November 11, where allegations of missing voter registration information at the IEC’s Brikama office were brought to public attention.
According to him, the reported irregularities require urgent investigation, adding that every affected citizen deserves a clear explanation and an appropriate remedy.
The former presidential aspirant questioned the IEC’s handling of the electoral process, saying recent developments had raised doubts about the Commission’s ability to demonstrate independence and impartiality.
He stressed that public confidence in the December election would depend on the Commission’s willingness to operate transparently and ensure equal treatment of all political contestants.
Sanyang called on the IEC to provide written explanations for its nomination decisions, investigate reports of missing voter registration records and make the voters’ register available for lawful scrutiny by presidential aspirants, political parties and accredited election observers, while protecting personal information.
He also appealed to opposition leaders to set aside their individual political ambitions and differences, urging them to unite around common democratic principles and pursue their concerns through peaceful and lawful means.
Sanyang warned that unresolved complaints surrounding nomination procedures and voter registration could undermine public confidence in the outcome of the forthcoming election.
He maintained that Gambians deserve credible electoral institutions, equal treatment and a transparent electoral process capable of withstanding public scrutiny.
