The call by Lawyer A.N.M. Ousainou Darboe, Secretary General of the United Democratic Party (UDP), for strict adherence to electoral laws is both timely and crucial. In a democratic society, the credibility of elections hinges on the integrity of the entire process, and it is no exaggeration to say that transparent voter registration forms the foundation of free and fair elections.
Darboe’s insistence that the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) thoroughly verify all voter registrants underscores the importance of due diligence. While possession of a national identity card may suggest citizenship, it cannot be the sole determinant. Proper verification procedures must be enforced to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that only eligible voters are registered. This is not a partisan issue—it is a matter of upholding the law and protecting the sanctity of the ballot.
Equally important is Darboe’s reminder that the law must be respected both in letter and in spirit. Legal compliance is not simply a bureaucratic formality; it is the assurance that every citizen’s vote carries its rightful weight and that political disputes can be resolved within the framework of justice, rather than through conflict or litigation.
Critics who suggest that Darboe should step aside in the wake of veteran politicians retiring fail to appreciate the principle he embodies: political leadership should be determined by competence, not by arbitrary timelines. By asserting control over his political destiny, Darboe reinforces the idea that responsibility, not mere longevity, defines effective leadership.
In the end, credible elections are not the product of rhetoric—they are the outcome of meticulous preparation and adherence to transparent processes. If the IEC heeds Darboe’s advice, ensuring rigorous voter registration and compliance with the law, the nation will take a decisive step toward elections that inspire confidence rather than suspicion.
Free and fair elections begin not at the ballot box, but with the integrity of the registry. Let us not forget: if registration is sound, elections will follow suit.
