The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has announced progress in the processing of presidential nomination papers, revealing that only three aspirants have so far fully satisfied all nomination requirements, while several others have been directed to provide additional supporters’ signatures and documentation.
Speaking at a press briefing, IEC Chairman Joseph Colley disclosed that nomination papers were issued to 27 aspiring presidential candidates. Of that number, 18 candidates submitted their nomination papers before the deadline, while nine either failed to submit or withdrew from the race.
Mr. Colley said six submissions were initially not processed because the mandatory nomination deposit had not been paid. He added that one of the affected aspirants has since formally withdrawn from the presidential contest.
The IEC is also conducting verification of candidates’ citizenship status and academic qualifications. According to the commission, secondary school certificates submitted by aspirants have been forwarded to the relevant authorities for authentication.
The commission confirmed that Talib Ahmed Bensouda of the United Party (UP), A.N.M. Ousainou Darboe of the United Democratic Party (UDP), and Adama Barrow of the National People’s Party (NPP) met all nomination requirements and were not required to submit any additional documentation or supporters’ signatures.
However, a number of aspirants were instructed to submit more signatures to meet the legal requirement of 5,000 supporters nationwide and the minimum thresholds in the country’s administrative areas.
Modou Lamin Sima of the Alliance of Progressive Citizens (APC) was directed to submit an additional 1,040 signatures to reach the national requirement.
Ansu Sanneh of the National Builders Party (NBP) was asked to provide more signatures in the Banjul and Kanifing administrative areas, as well as at least 79 additional signatures nationally.
The IEC also stated that Kebba Madi Bojang of the National Democratic Party (NDP) must secure more signatures in the Banjul and Kerewan administrative areas and obtain an additional 1,914 signatures nationwide.
Independent aspirant Barkary K. Badjie faces one of the largest shortfalls, with the commission directing him to submit more signatures in all administrative areas, including an additional 2,310 signatures nationally.
Similarly, Ebrima Tabora Manneh of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) was instructed to provide additional signatures in several regions and secure 1,507 more signatures nationwide.
Meanwhile, the nomination papers of independent aspirants Lamin J. Darbo and Almameh Gibba remain under review by the electoral body.
Mr. Colley assured the public that the commission would continue to provide updates on the nomination process. He said certificates of acceptance would be issued to all qualified presidential candidates upon completion of the verification exercise.
“The IEC will keep the public informed on the progress of the nomination process,” Mr. Colley said.
