Alhagie Alieu Momarr Njai, the long-serving Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), has officially announced his retirement, ending a significant chapter in the commission’s history. Under his leadership, the IEC went through several key elections, most notably the 2016 election, which resulted in a peaceful but turbulent transition of power from Yahya Jammeh to Adama Barrow.
Allegations of voter rigging have marked Njai’s tenure. However, he has been committed to enhancing transparency and credibility in the electoral process, including implementing on-the-spot vote counting to increase trust in electoral outcomes.
Confirming his Retirement, Njai’s son, Momodou Alieu Njai, expressed gratitude for his father’s service, highlighting his role in fostering a democratic environment and empowering youth participation in the political process. Momodou also noted Njai’s integrity in addressing and rectifying errors during his tenure, further contributing to the credibility of the electoral system.
In a statement reflecting on his tenure, Njai expressed confidence in his Dad’s efforts to safeguard the electoral process and emphasized the importance of integrity among public officials. He noted that Gambians are now responsible for ensuring that elected officials remain accountable and dedicated to their duties.
As Chairman, Njai oversaw several significant elections, including the landmark 2016 election that brought President Barrow to power. While his leadership has been commended for its focus on transparency and credibility, it has also faced scrutiny. Some political figures have raised concerns about his capacity to manage elections, citing age-related issues, though Njai has consistently defended his commitment to fair electoral practices.
The IEC has not yet announced a successor for Njai, but the appointment process is expected to follow constitutional guidelines, which include nominations and confirmation procedures. This transition will be critical for the commission as it prepares for future elections, aiming to maintain public trust and ensure the continuity of its operations.
Njai’s contributions to The Gambia’s democratic landscape have been significant, particularly during politically charged periods. His retirement marks not only the conclusion of his leadership but also a pivotal moment for the future of electoral integrity in the country.
