Darbo files presidential papers as independent, backed by coalition
Independent candidate Lamin J. Darbo handed in his documents to the electoral commission on Wednesday, with the Team Gambia Grand Coalition behind him.
Lamin J. Darbo lodged his nomination papers for the December 5 presidential election at the Independent Electoral Commission's Election House in Kanifing on Wednesday, November 11. He presents himself as an independent candidate, and the Team Gambia Grand Coalition is backing him, with its coordinators and veteran politicians Halifa Sallah and Sidia Jatta at his side.
IEC chairperson Joseph Colley said Darbo had supplied documents covering citizenship, age, education, voter registration, nominators and the nomination deposit, among other items. Colley said the Commission would carry out its due diligence before issuing a final decision. Darbo said he was no longer representing the National Unity Party, and Colley confirmed receipt of his resignation letter.
Colley issued Darbo a nomination receipt and a copy of the documents and campaign code. Endorsed candidates are to meet on November 15 to plan their campaign schedules and sign a peace pact on November 16. The Commission will publish its list of withdrawn, accepted and rejected candidates at 6 pm on November 14.
Why it mattersDarbo's bid now waits on the commission's final decision, which will decide whether he can appear on the ballot in December.