By: Binta Jaiteh
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has officially registered the Unite Movement for Change (UMC) as a political party ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.
The registration marks a significant milestone for the movement, which was launched seven months ago.
Speaking in an interview with The Voice Newspaper, the party’s First Deputy Leader for Finance and Administration, Yaya Menteng Sanyang, confirmed the IEC approval, describing it as a step forward for the party’s participation in national politics.
He said the decision reflects a shared commitment to the democratic process and expressed hope that, if elected, the party would promote transparent governance, accountability and the fight against corruption.
Sanyang said UMC believes that national development cannot be achieved while a large number of young people remain unemployed, adding that the party would prioritise skills training, innovation, digital entrepreneurship and increased participation of women and youth in leadership.
He described the registration as evidence of the expansion of democratic space in The Gambia, noting that it provides citizens with more political choices and encourages competition of ideas.
Sanyang said the development was not only a victory for party supporters but also for democracy, political pluralism and the constitutional right of citizens to organise and participate in governance.
He added that the party would prioritise dialogue, respect for democratic institutions, the rule of law and peaceful political engagement, with the aim of uniting Gambians rather than dividing them.
The party commended the IEC for carrying out its constitutional mandate and ensuring compliance with legal requirements for political party registration.