By: Fatou Krubally
The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) has called on Gambians to actively participate in the ongoing 2026 Supplementary Voter Registration exercise, while urging strict adherence to legal procedures and cautioning against fraudulent practices.
The exercise, which commenced on 8 April and is expected to end on 21 May 2026, is reportedly progressing smoothly in most registration centres across the country.
The Council, however, is encouraging eligible citizens particularly first-time voters, young people who will attain 18 years by 5 December 2026, persons with disabilities, and those without valid voter cards to take advantage of the opportunity to register.
According to the NCCE, voter registration remains a critical step in the democratic process, describing the voter’s card as a key instrument through which citizens exercise their civic rights and shape national leadership.
The Council reminded the public that registration is governed by clear legal requirements under the Elections Act, 2025.
Applicants must be Gambian citizens and meet the minimum age requirement of 18 years. They are also required to present valid documentation, including a Gambian birth certificate, national identity card, passport, or an attestation from an Alkalo or Seyfo, as prescribed by law.
The NCCE warned that providing false information or attempting to register using fraudulent documents constitutes a serious offence, attracting penalties including fines, imprisonment, and possible disqualification from voting or registering for up to ten years.
It also raised concern over the growing practice of sharing individuals’ personal identification documents on social media, describing it as a violation of privacy rights and a potential source of harassment or tension. The Council urged citizens and political actors to verify information before sharing and to avoid what it termed digital vigilantism.
