By Ousman Saidykhan
The Half-Die ward by-election unfolded today at the Banjul KG5 mini stadium, where both candidates cast their votes amid high spirits, each expressing strong confidence in securing victory in a race widely anticipated to be closely contested. The by-election, triggered by the absconding of former councilor Momodou Bah during an official trip to Belgium, has drawn significant attention as voters turn out to choose their new representative.
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) candidate, Momodou Salieu Jallow, was the first to vote, arriving four hours after polls opened at 8:00 a.m. Accompanied by a small group of supporters, Jallow exuded optimism as he spoke to journalists shortly after casting his ballot. “I have confidence in myself. The support and confidence rendered by my party have boosted my confidence even higher. I’m pretty confident I will emerge victorious,” he declared.
Jallow, a native of Half-Die, emphasized his deep connection to the community, vowing to “change the status quo” if elected. “We are not too young to lead. We have come to show that every revolution has a beginning,” he said, underscoring his commitment to addressing local challenges and rejecting external inducements to focus on community welfare.
Approximately 30 minutes later, the National People’s Party (NPP) candidate, Bartholomy Bolo Colley, cast his vote, joined by prominent NPP figures, including Momodou Sabally, Seedy Njie, and Banjul regional chairman Ousman Wadda. While brief in his remarks, Colley expressed confidence in his support base, stating, “I know the people of Half-Die too well, and they have been with me from the onset. I believe with them, I will be victorious.” He noted that his assurance of victory had been steadfast since the campaign began, rooted in his understanding of the community’s struggles.
NPP deputy spokesperson Seedy Njie reinforced Colley’s optimism, highlighting the loyalty of Half-Die residents to the Barrow-led government. “The people of Banjul, particularly Half-Die, are very supportive of the government, and this was evident during the campaign,” Njie said. He expressed hope that this support would translate into votes, adding, “We are elated and hopeful that this bond of love will continue after the election, and we will carry the seat home.”
Voting is taking place at three polling stations within the KG5 mini stadium, each just meters apart. An Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) official indicated that the counting process would be swift, with results expected shortly after polls close at 5:00 p.m. Voters have been arriving in small groups, exercising their constitutional rights to fill the vacant council seat.
The by-election has sparked considerable interest, with both candidates leveraging their local ties and party support to sway voters. As the day progresses, all eyes remain on Half-Die, awaiting the outcome of this pivotal contest that could reshape the ward’s leadership and priorities.
