The
Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has approved the registration of All
Peoples’ Party (APP) on Friday 17 January.
According
to the party’s interim leader, Dr Gumbo Ali Touray, the party has a different
ideology and refined thinking, representing a new beginning with a different
alternative and vision for The Gambia.
Dr
Touray said APP believes in genuine democracy, the rule of law, responsible
governance, transparency and puts the country first. He called on all Gambians
to join and support the new party.
“Our
mission is to participate in the political activities of this nation. We seek
no confrontation but to show and share respect and understanding among all
existing political parties in the interest of national development and social
progress,” he said.
The interim party leader said they appreciate
the rigorous procedures they had to go through before they were accorded
recognition, saying “our political philosophy is people centered, people
ownership and dedication to the people of The Gambia.”
Electoral
commission chairman, Alieu Momar Njie urged the party to be law abiding and
follow all the rules in order to ensure peaceful elections, adding that
elections would be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
Chairman
Njie said there is a need for every party in a democratic state to convene
their congress every two years, adding that the electoral commission should
always be informed of these activities.
A
commission of the IEC, Lamin Cham said politicians should follow the rules of
politics, saying Gambia belongs to Gambians and none can stop that.
“Politicians should bring people together and not separate them. Politicians
should campaign clearly and directly.”
