A group called the Gambia ID Card Scheme “A Great Concerned” (GICSAC) has raised strong objections against the government’s ongoing initiative to issue national identity cards to Gambians living abroad, citing threats to national security and electoral integrity.
In a press conference held on July 15, 2025, the organization criticised the Ministry of Interior and the Immigration Department for what it called a “risky and opaque” process of distributing national documents beyond Gambian borders.
GICSAC, through its leader, Haggie Suwaneh, claimed that while ID cards are scarcely available within the country due to logistical issues, the government has prioritised their issuance overseas — a move already implemented in Mauritania. The group questions the scrutiny applied in verifying applicants abroad, warning of potential exploitation, foreign interference, and fraudulent electoral activity.
“National ID cards should not be handed out like souvenirs,” Suwaneh stated. “They represent our sovereignty and security. Issuing them freely overseas, with weak verification systems, is a threat to both.”
The group emphasised that the lack of transparency around how many ID cards have been issued abroad and to whom only heightens public distrust.
Furthermore, reports suggesting these cards are distributed free of charge raise suspicions about government motives, especially with elections approaching.
In addition to its concerns on identity card distribution, GICSAC also condemned the recent increase in National Assembly nomination fees from D5,000 to D150,000. The group labeled the move as a calculated strategy to exclude the youth, women, and underprivileged candidates from participating in the democratic process.
“This fee hike is not just about money, it’s about silencing voices and concentrating power among the elite,” GICSAC leader argued, calling on lawmakers to reverse the decision in the name of democratic fairness.
The organization concluded its address by demanding the immediate suspension of ID card issuance outside The Gambia, full disclosure of diaspora statistics, and a transparent review of the nomination fee policy.
GICSAC’s bold stance adds to the growing debate surrounding electoral fairness and national security as The Gambia heads into a critical election season in 2026.
