By: Dawda M. Jallow
MC Cham Jnr a member of the Unite Movement for Change (UMC), has urged the public not to interpret routine electoral procedures as political exclusion, warning that such perceptions risk misrepresenting facts and escalating tensions.
Mr. Cham who is also Business Councillor at the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) came up with his clarification following a reported set back faced by UMC over its registration documents as a political party.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 19 February 2026, Cham addressed reactions surrounding the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) request for some applicants to correct and resubmit documentation.
He maintained that the commission’s move was a normal administrative process rather than a barrier to leadership ambitions.
Cham explains that there is a clear distinction between outright rejection and a request for corrections. While rejection signals final disqualification, he says, a request to amend documents reflects procedural compliance within the country’s electoral framework.
According to him, the IEC’s initial refusal to accept certain applications stemmed from technical deficiencies, noting that affected applicants are permitted to regularise their submissions once they meet stipulated requirements.
He further stressed that leadership should not be judged solely on administrative technicalities, but on qualities such as vision, accountability and the ability to inspire and mobilise citizens while respecting democratic institutions.
Cham also called on the public and political observers to prioritise substantive national issues over procedural debates, arguing that the legitimacy of leadership will ultimately be determined by voters.
“The real test of leadership will not be decided at the document verification stage but by the Gambian people at the ballot box,” he stated.
He adds that responding to the IEC’s observations and resubmitting documents demonstrates respect for due process and confidence in the rule of law, describing compliance with electoral guidelines as a responsibility rather than a weakness.
Cham concluded by encouraging calm and constructive engagement as the electoral process unfolds, reiterating that administrative procedures form part of democratic governance and that voters will have the final say in determining leadership.
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