GAMBIA: Alarm Bells Ring: IEC Finds Over 2,800 Double Voter Registrations During Ongoing Voter Supplementary Exercise

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has identified more than 2,800 instances of double voter registration since the supplementary registration exercise began on April 8, 2026, according to Chairman Joseph colley.

He shared this update during the 2nd Multi-Stakeholder Forum held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center. Joseph Colley described the situation as troubling and emphasized that it clearly violates the country’s electoral laws.

According to him, some individuals who had already registered during the 2021 voter registration are attempting to register again. He stressed that this practice constitutes double registration, which is considered a serious offense under national law.

Despite ongoing voter education campaigns carried out by the Commission, Colley noted that thousands have still tried to register more than once. He reiterated that all applicants are required to follow the legal guidelines governing voter registration.

The current exercise is intended to update the 2021 voter register by including new eligible voters and those who missed the earlier process. Colley assured the public and relevant stakeholders that the IEC remains fully committed to maintaining a credible and transparent system.

He pointed out that the process is being conducted openly, with civil society groups, media organizations, and political parties given full access to observe proceedings.

In addition to registering new voters, the Commission is also handling replacements for lost or damaged voter cards and processing transfer requests across different regions, constituencies, and wards. Colley said these operations are generally progressing well, despite a few logistical challenges.

He mentioned that most teams are performing their duties professionally and in line with the Commission’s standards, although minor issues have been reported. These include malfunctioning printer components at some centers and incorrect date settings by one of the field teams, particularly in the Yarambamba area. He added that these problems are already being addressed.

Colley also raised concerns about growing political interference in the registration process. He warned that excessive involvement by certain political actors could disrupt operations and weaken public trust in the system.

Additionally, he criticized the actions of some groups presenting themselves as political entities without being officially registered. He explained that such behavior goes against constitutional and electoral regulations.

Only officially registered political parties, he clarified, are allowed to sponsor candidates, access state media under regulated conditions, and benefit from legal protections. Any group that has not completed the required registration process cannot legally function as a political party or claim those privileges.

He further explained that while organizations may register as NGOs or associations through the appropriate legal channels, this does not grant them the rights of political parties.

As the supplementary registration enters its third week, the IEC says the exercise is expected to improve the accuracy and inclusiveness of the voter roll ahead of future elections. The Commission continues to emphasize transparency, professionalism, and strict compliance with electoral laws.

Participants at the forum welcomed the update and encouraged continued cooperation to ensure the process remains fair and free of irregularities. The IEC has also reaffirmed its willingness to take action against anyone found violating electoral rules, including those involved in double registration.