On the eve of a major democratic exercise, the Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Joseph Colley, has formally announced the start of the 2026 supplementary voter registration, urging all eligible Gambians to participate in strengthening the nation’s electoral process.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Commission, Chairman Colley declared that the supplementary registration will commence tomorrow, April 8, 2026, and run until May 21, 2026. This 44-day exercise serves as a critical prelude to The Gambia’s upcoming polls: the Presidential election scheduled for December 5, 2026, followed by National Assembly and Local Government elections in the first quarter of 2027.
“The supplementary voter registration is an important milestone in the electoral process,” Colley said. “It is a prelude to various elections that will follow and represents a key step towards the consolidation of our democratic process and the enfranchisement of eligible Gambians.”
The IEC has deployed 100 registration teams across the country to operate at 730 registration centers nationwide. These teams consist of trained electoral personnel proficient in the IEC’s voter registration software and equipment, as well as relevant legal provisions. Registration will occur daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., including weekends and public holidays.
This supplementary exercise will update the 2021 voter register by adding new eligible voters—primarily Gambians who have reached or will reach the age of 18 by December 5, 2026, and those who missed the previous registration for any reason. It also allows registered voters to transfer to new polling stations or replace lost, damaged, burnt, or mutilated voter cards free of charge at designated centers within their region.
To qualify for registration under the Elections Act 2025, applicants must present one of the following documents: a birth certificate, a Gambian passport, a National Identity Card, or an attestation from an Alkalo or Seyfo certifying Gambian citizenship
Colley emphasized the civic importance of the exercise: “Voting is a civic duty. I therefore urge all eligible Gambians to register when a voter registration team arrives in their area.” The IEC has widely disseminated the Team Movement Schedule through media outlets and stakeholders to ensure maximum awareness.
The Commission has stressed strict adherence to the law to maintain the integrity of the process. Fraudulent registration, double registration, or any attempts to undermine the principle of “one man, one vote” will be treated as offenses and prosecuted accordingly. Voter transfers will be handled exclusively at IEC Election Offices across the regions.
Political party agents, observers, and the media are encouraged to monitor the process closely to promote transparency, inclusivity, and full compliance with legal requirements.
Reaffirming the IEC’s commitment, Colley stated: “The Commission wishes to reassure the electorate and all stakeholders of its continued resolve to deliver a free, fair, transparent, and credible voter registration exercise in accordance with the laws of the land.”
He expressed profound appreciation to all stakeholders—including political parties, civil society, and the media—for their ongoing engagement and cooperation, and invited further consultations as needed. “As a public institution accountable to the Gambian people, the IEC reaffirms its core principles of fair play, integrity, and transparency,” he added.
In conclusion, Chairman Colley wished the electorate and all involved parties a successful and peaceful registration exercise.
This supplementary registration comes at a pivotal moment for Gambian democracy, as the country prepares for high-stakes elections that will shape its political future. With incumbent President Adama Barrow seeking a third term, the updated voter roll is expected to play a decisive role in ensuring broad participation and credible outcomes.
Eligible citizens are encouraged to check the IEC’s published schedules and present the required documentation promptly. The Commission says its doors remain open for any clarifications during this important national activity.
