Gambia election sees 25 aspirants seek nomination
The Independent Electoral Commission has opened the nomination window for 25 presidential hopefuls ahead of the December 5 poll.
Gambia will hold its presidential election on December 5, with 25 aspirants showing interest in nomination. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has set November 3 to 14, 2026, for candidates to file their papers. This period is anticipated to be the busiest nomination window in recent history, indicating a large number of political parties, coalitions, and independent candidates vying to succeed President Adama Barrow.
Among the prominent figures expected to file nominations are incumbent President Adama Barrow of the National People's Party (NPP), Lawyer Ousainu Darboe representing the UDP-led Gambia First Coalition, and Kanifing Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda of UNITE and Coalition 2026. Candidates must meet constitutional requirements, including citizenship, age, and voter support, and pay a nomination deposit. The IEC has scheduled specific dates for each aspirant and party, with UNITE and its partners due on November 7.
Following the nomination period, the IEC will vet the submissions and publish a final list of candidates. This process will pave the way for official campaigning to commence before Gambians head to the polls on December 5 to elect their next president.
Why it mattersGambia's citizens will elect a new president on December 5, with 25 individuals seeking nomination to run.