November 6, 2026 — Kebba Madi Bojang of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and independent aspirant Bakary K. Badjie submitted their nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Friday ahead of The Gambia’s December 5 presidential election. A third aspirant, Musa Jallow, did not appear for his scheduled nomination.
Bojang, 51, was the first to submit his papers. He presented results from the 2025 private West African Senior School Certificate Examination and his tertiary studies, but did not provide the corresponding certificates. His personal income tax clearance also remains outstanding: the document he submitted was issued in his business’s name. The NDP submitted its manifesto, while its registered-voter figures remain pending. Bojang paid the D1 million nomination fee.
Badjie, 37, a National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang Karanai, followed Bojang. He submitted his credentials and manifesto, and identified white and green as his campaign colours.
Speaking to journalists, Badjie called for a national effort to tackle corruption and strengthen public institutions. He raised concerns about debt, healthcare, infrastructure and workers’ salaries, and said public office should be about serving citizens rather than personal enrichment.
“Building our nation is now, and the responsibility that lies ahead of us is more than political parties,” he said. “The responsibility that lies ahead of us is more than tribe.”
Asked about his record in parliament, Badjie said a legislator’s role was to advocate for constituents, make laws and hold institutions accountable, rather than directly build roads or schools. He also promised improvements in education, health and human rights if elected.
Jallow’s absence leaves his participation in the nomination process uncertain.
