By: Alieu Ceesay and Momodou S Gagigo
The ruling National People’s Party (NPP) has delivered a decisive double victory in the Lower River Region, securing both the Bantanjang and Kaiaf Ward by-elections for the Mansakonko Area Council, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) confirmed today.
In the closely watched Kaiaf Ward contest, NPP candidate Omar Touray emerged victorious over United Democratic Party (UDP) challenger Sulayman Sanneh, overturning expectations in a ward long considered a stronghold for the opposition. The seat had fallen vacant following the death of NPP Councillor Hamat Ceesay in November 2025.
Preliminary results from polling districts show strong turnout across the ward, with many residents returning from Kombo and other areas to cast their ballots. Voters cited key local concerns, including feeder roads, reliable water supply, youth skills training programs, and support for women’s economic activities.
Detailed tallies from Kaiaf Ward districts reveal a competitive battle: Kiaf polling points gave the UDP an edge, with 441 votes to the NPP’s 207, while Genierr went heavily for the UDP, with 292 votes against 49 for the NPP. However, the NPP dominated in Njolfen (175–86) and built decisive momentum in other sections.
The day’s second triumph came in Bantanjang Ward, where NPP candidate Abdoulie Badjie was declared the winner, giving the ruling party consecutive council-level gains in the region. Official vote margins and full turnout figures for both contests are expected from the IEC in the coming hours.
The back-to-back successes represent a significant show of grassroots strength for the NPP in the Lower River Region, an area historically marked by fierce competition between the two major parties. Political analysts view the results as an early indicator of growing momentum for the ruling party as the country approaches the 2026 presidential elections.
NPP supporters took to the streets in celebratory scenes in both wards, waving party flags and chanting victory slogans, while the atmosphere remained largely calm and peaceful overall. The UDP has yet to issue an official statement on the outcomes, though party officials are expected to conduct a detailed review of their performance, particularly in what was regarded as a winnable seat in Kaiaf.
With these wins, the NPP strengthens its position at the local level in a strategically important region, potentially setting the tone for broader national campaigning in the months ahead.
