By: Modou Touray
Prince Ebrahim Sanyang has announced his decision not to submit his presidential nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), citing the inability of the Commission to trace his voter registration record.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, Sanyang said the decision followed unsuccessful attempts to locate his previously registered voter information at several IEC offices, including Brikama, Yarambamba, Mansa Konko Regional Offices and the Commissionโs headquarters.
He explained that despite having registered previously and being issued a voterโs card, searches conducted at the various offices failed to establish his registration details in the IEC database.
According to Sanyang, his legal representatives formally wrote to the IEC on November 10, requesting urgent verification of his registration, restoration of his record where supported by evidence, and replacement of his voterโs card.
However, with the matter still unresolved, he said he consulted his legal team and executive before deciding not to proceed with the submission of his nomination papers.
Sanyang questioned the Commissionโs data management and credibility, arguing that proceeding with his candidacy while the registration issue remained unresolved could expose his nomination to legal challenges and create uncertainty.
Apologises to Supporters
The presidential aspirant expressed regret to his team, volunteers, organisers, advisers and supporters both within The Gambia and abroad over the decision.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by his supporters in preparation for the nomination process, saying their dedication and commitment deserved an opportunity to move the campaign forward.
He, however, thanked them for their continued support, stressing that their shared commitment to public service, dignity and opportunities for Gambians remained important beyond any single nomination or candidacy.
Demands Investigation into Missing Voter Record
Sanyang has called on the IEC to urgently investigate the matter, provide its findings in writing and take appropriate corrective measures if evidence establishes that his registration record was wrongly omitted or otherwise affected.
He described the inability to trace the voter registration record of a presidential aspirant as a serious matter with potential implications for the credibility of the electoral process.
He maintained that the circumstances surrounding the missing record must be established through evidence and a transparent investigation, adding that public confidence in the electoral process depends on timely and accountable responses to legitimate concerns.
Sanyang further questioned the credibility and independence of the IEC to conduct free and fair elections under the current circumstances, raising concerns about whether the 2026 presidential election process had been compromised.
Reserves Legal Rights
The presidential aspirant emphasised that his decision not to submit his nomination papers should not be interpreted as a waiver or abandonment of his legal rights.
He said all his rights remain expressly reserved and that any further action would be pursued through lawful and peaceful channels, including local and international courts where necessary.
Pledges to Pursue Opposition Coalition
Despite the setback, Sanyang reaffirmed his commitment to public service and the democratic process, pledging to continue engaging in efforts towards national unity, accountable leadership and the wellbeing of Gambians.
He also announced his intention to play a central role in efforts to establish an inclusive and united opposition front ahead of the December 5 presidential election.
According to him, the proposed coalition would seek to bring together all opposition political parties and movements, ensuring that no well-meaning opposition group is left out.
He expressed optimism that such an alliance could emerge as the biggest opposition coalition under the current political circumstances.
Sanyang called on supporters of the EFF to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, urging them to uphold the principles of respect, responsibility and national interest.
He concluded by thanking those who have stood by him, reaffirming his commitment to serving The Gambia.
The statement was signed by H.R.H. Prince Ebrahim Sanyang.
