By Kemo Kanyi
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible supplementary voter registration process ahead of the 2026 national elections.
Joseph Colley, IEC Chairman made the announcement on Tuesday during stakeholders’ engagement at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre. He says the supplementary registration has been scheduled to take place from April 8 to May 21, 2026.
“The Commission would like to reassure the electorate and all its stakeholders of its continued commitment and resolve to deliver a free, fair, transparent and credible voter registration exercise,” Mr. Colley said.
He called on all stakeholders in the electoral process to provide continued support, emphasizing the commission’s role in promoting peace, harmony, and political tolerance in The Gambia. He added that the amended Elections Act passed by the National Assembly in 2025 would guide the country through the current electoral cycle and beyond.
Mr. Colley noted that case law would also guide electoral processes, citing a past court ruling that prohibited the use of attestations in Banjul City during voter registration. He added that the Commission planned to introduce regulations on key issues, including the use of attestations, while maintaining its principles of fair play, integrity, and transparency.
The IEC Chairman urged all eligible Gambians who missed voter registration in 2021 to participate in the 2026 supplementary registration. He warns that double registration is illegal and underscores the commission’s commitment to the “one person, one vote” principle.
He further highlighted new provisions in the Elections Act allowing voters to replace lost or damaged voting cards and to transfer their registration from one constituency to another, in line with legal requirements.
Mr. Colley concludes by stressing that the IEC is working tirelessly to ensure the success of the 2026 supplementary voter registration, which will serve as an addition to the 2021 voter register.