#Headlines

2026 presidential election set for Dec 5 – IEC Chairman

Oct 10, 2025, 11:31 AM | Article By: Ismaila Sonko

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) chairman Joseph Colley has announced that The Gambia’s presidential election will take place on December 5, 2026.

Chairman Colley made this announcement during the official launch of the 2026–2027 election calendar at the OIC Conference Centre in Bijilo.

IEC chairman said National Assembly elections are scheduled for April 10, 2027, Councillor elections for May 22, 2027, and Mayoral and Chairperson elections for June 26, 2027. A supplementary voter registration exercise will be conducted from April 1 to May 14, 2026, as an addition to the existing 2021 voter register.

Mr Colley indicated that the Commission has validated its Strategic Plan for 2026-2027, which outlines priorities such as inclusion, transparency, and adherence to electoral laws.

He stated that the IEC will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure clarity, understanding and confidence in the electoral process.

Further, he said the IEC is mandated under Section 43 of the Constitution of The Gambia to conduct all public elections and referenda, and to set election dates in line with the country’s electoral laws.

Colley also noted that the registration of political parties remains subject to legal requirements, and urged groups seeking registration to comply with the stipulated provisions before engaging in political activities.

The Commission said the election dates were set in accordance with legal requirements and logistical considerations to ensure transparency and integrity in the process.